Masterclass on water scarcity in Bengaluru | S2E10

On, OoruLabs, India's premier urban issues podcast,
We discuss the water crisis in Bangalore with Vishwanath Srikantaiah aka @zenrainman and explore the severity of the issue.

Bengaluru is facing an unprecedented water scarcity crisis, with many tanker services stopping due to a lack of water at the source. The city's water supply is heavily reliant on energy-inefficient pumping from the Cauvery River and underground sources. Vishwanath Shekhandaya, also known as Zen Rain Man, discusses the severity of the crisis and the need for long-term solutions. The interview highlights the challenges of coordinating multiple agencies and the importance of integrated urban water management. The conversation also emphasizes the role of water tankers as a short-term solution and the potential for increasing competition in the sector. It is crucial to address the supply gap and invest in infrastructure, such as connecting wastewater treatment plants to surface water bodies. The discussion raises concerns about the lack of political support and the negative impact on the brand image of Bengaluru. However, there is enough water available from various sources, including rainwater, groundwater, and treated wastewater, if managed efficiently. The conversation concludes by emphasizing the need for citizen action, including water literacy, responsible construction practices, and paying the true economic cost of water.
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Takeaways
Bengaluru is facing an unprecedented water scarcity crisis, with a heavy reliance on energy-inefficient pumping from the Cauvery River and underground sources.
Coordinating multiple agencies and implementing integrated urban water management are crucial for finding long-term solutions to the water crisis.
Water tankers play a significant role as a short-term solution, but increasing competition and improving coordination between private and public tankers is necessary.
Investing in infrastructure, such as connecting wastewater treatment plants to surface water bodies, is essential to address the supply gap.
Citizen action, including water literacy, responsible construction practices, and paying the true economic cost of water, is crucial for sustainable water management.
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Timecodes
00:00 Introduction: Water Scarcity in Bengaluru
01:33 Interview with Vishwanath Srikantaiah
09:36 Water Supply and Resource Scarcity
11:28 Challenges of Groundwater Depletion
12:56 Political Support and Brand Bengaluru
15:10 Water Balance and Other Sources
20:44 Conclusion: Importance of Water Conservation
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Stock video and picture credits to various contributors on X, Giphy, Raj Bhagat P, Citizen matters, Pexels. All rights belong to respective owners.
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