A Concise Guide to Cauvery Water Connections for Bengaluru Apartments
Introduction For more than 50 years - the Cauvery River has been Bengaluru’s primary water source, managed by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). As the city has grown rapidly in the last few decades - new residential developments have had the option to choose between a Cauvery connection, borewells or tankers for their water supply. The process to obtain a Cauvery connection is often considered complex and costly, which means many apartment complexes continue to rely on borewells and water tankers. This guide simplifies the process, offering a clear path for Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), developers, and homebuyers. Unlike individual houses, apartment complexes receive a single bulk water connection. BWSSB allocates water based on a standard of 200 liters per flat per day. The RWA or developer is then responsible for the internal distribution, including managing storage tanks and pumping systems to ensure water reaches every flat.
Eligibility and Mandatory Requirements
Before granting a connection, BWSSB requires societies to meet several prerequisites:
Occupancy Certificate (OC): Confirms the building is constructed according to approved plans.
Rainwater Harvesting (RWH): Mandatory for all multi-storied buildings to help replenish groundwater.
Sewage Treatment Plant (STP): Required for complexes with 120 or more flats to treat and reuse wastewater.
Water Conservation Measures: Installation of tap aerators and flow limiters is compulsory.
Application and Approval Process The process involves submitting an application (Form II NOC) with all necessary documents. Upon approval, BWSSB issues a demand notice for the fees. After payment and successful inspection of the mandatory infrastructure, the physical connection is established.
Cost Components and Payment
The one-time costs for a bulk connection are substantial and include:
Pro-Rata Charge: Calculated at ₹400 per square meter of the total built-up area. Beneficiary Capital Contribution (BCC): An additional fee for areas included in the Greater Bangalore Water & Sanitation Project (GBWASP). Other Charges: Include fees for the water meter, inspection, security deposit, and sewage line connection.
For a mid-sized society of 800 flats, the total cost can be approximately ₹3.4 to ₹3.7 crore. To ease this financial burden, BWSSB offers the "Sarala Cauvery" EMI scheme, allowing societies to pay 20% upfront and the rest in 12 interest-free monthly installments.
Despite the long-term benefits, many apartment complexes delay getting a Cauvery water connection due to:
High Upfront Costs: The multi-crore expense is often a major deterrent. Uncertain Initial Supply: New connections may initially receive water only a few days a week. Administrative Hurdles: The approval process can be lengthy and complex. Reliance on Existing Alternatives: Many societies are accustomed to using borewells and water tankers.
Conclusion
The biggest advantage of the Cauvery connection is that it offers economies of scale with lower per-liter costs, simplified billing, and uniform regulatory compliance.
However - there are multiple challenges associated - such as high one-time fees, the technical responsibility of internal water maintenance, and potential disputes over water usage within the society.
While securing a Cauvery water connection in Bengaluru requires significant investment and careful planning, it is the most sustainable and cost-effective long-term solution, especially for a large society that can afford to invest in one. If you’re looking to purchase a home in Bengaluru - always verify the status of the Cauvery water connection, including all necessary approvals and infrastructure.
