Bengaluru struggles with unused treated wastewater supply

Bengaluru, known as India's Silicon Valley, is facing a potential water crisis as summer approaches. While over 3,500 apartment complexes in the city have set up systems to treat wastewater, much of this water remains unused. This is happening even as industries in Bengaluru face water shortages. Vikas Brahmavar, CEO of Boson Whitewater, highlights a critical issue: most of the treated water from these apartments is sent to the drains, wasting around 200 crore litres daily. Industries need about 300 million litres each day for their operations, making it essential to find a more efficient use for this treated water. Brahmavar suggests a strategic mapping initiative that would identify apartments with excess treated water. This water could then be supplied to local industries. Such a system has already worked well in places like Electronic City, where businesses are using treated water from nearby apartments instead of relying solely on tanker or borewell sources. Industries often face challenges when they use tanker water, as they must treat it again, resulting in significant water loss. By sourcing treated water directly from residential systems, industries can operate more sustainably and efficiently. This collaborative method benefits both parties. Industries gain a reliable water source, while apartments can dispose of their excess treated water wisely. The Karnataka government supports this approach, allowing residential complexes to sell up to 50% of their treated water for non-drinking uses, including industrial purposes. However, the city still faces hurdles. Successful pilot projects show promise, but wider adoption needs strong partnerships between apartments, industries, and government agencies to be effective.