BWSSB Chairman Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar announced the extension after reviewing the scheme with senior officials at the board’s headquarters.
Bengaluru, April 29: In a major citizen-friendly move, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has extended the ‘Sarala Cauvery’ scheme until further orders, enabling residents to avail Cauvery water connections through an easy EMI-based payment system.
The decision aligns with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s vision of ensuring access to safe and clean Cauvery water for every household in Bengaluru without imposing financial strain. BWSSB Chairman Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar announced the extension after reviewing the scheme with senior officials at the board’s headquarters.
Launched in May 2025, the scheme has received an overwhelming public response, particularly from economically weaker sections, middle-class families, and apartment associations who found it difficult to pay the full pro-rata charges upfront for new water connections.
Key Highlights of the Sarala Cauvery Scheme:
- Affordable Access for Small Plot Owners: Residents with built-up areas up to 600 sq. ft. can obtain a Cauvery water connection by paying just ₹1,000 initially, with the remaining amount payable in easy instalments.
- EMI Facility for Apartments: Apartment associations can now pay only 20% of the demand notice (DN) amount upfront and settle the remaining 80% over a period of 12 months, easing financial burden.
- Extended to Commercial Users: The scheme is not limited to residential users. Non-domestic and commercial establishments are also eligible to avail Cauvery water connections through EMI options.
- Focus on Public Health: The initiative aims to ensure that clean and safe Cauvery water reaches every household, improving overall public health standards across the city.
Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar stated that under the leadership of D.K. Shivakumar, BWSSB continues to prioritise public-centric initiatives. “Like earlier programmes such as Mobile Cauvery, third-generation rainwater harvesting, and SCADA-based systems, Sarala Cauvery is designed to be consumer-friendly. The EMI facility will significantly benefit apartments and commercial establishments facing financial constraints,” he said.
The water board has already taken several proactive measures to ensure adequate water supply across Bengaluru, and the extension of this scheme is expected to further ease access and improve service delivery for citizens.
About the Author
