Bengaluru needs practical water conservation efforts urgently

The Karnataka government recently held a Cauvery Aarti at Sankey Tank in Bengaluru. This event, similar to the famous Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, aimed to connect the community with the Cauvery River and promote water conservation. Hundreds of people attended, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Sankey Tank was chosen for its historical significance as it is believed to be the birthplace of a tributary of the Cauvery. Despite its cultural importance, the event faced some legal issues due to environmental concerns. A court allowed the Aarti to proceed but warned authorities to follow the rules governing activities in water bodies. The Cauvery River is crucial as it supplies around 70% of Bengaluru's water needs. However, as the city grows, there are worries about future water availability. The government has proposed the Mekedatu project to increase water supply, but it faces opposition from Tamil Nadu. Experts warn that Bengaluru's water scarcity is getting worse each year. By 2028, the city's water demand is expected to significantly exceed supply. Conservation efforts are needed, and many residents feel that the government must do more than just hold symbolic events. Local citizen Deepak G. expressed concern that cultural ceremonies do not address the real water crisis. He called for practical solutions like improving rainwater harvesting and fixing leaks. Urban planner Vishwanath S. supported the Aarti but stressed the need for a dedicated institution to manage and protect the entire Cauvery river basin. In conclusion, while the Aarti highlights the importance of the Cauvery River, there are calls for urgent action to ensure that Bengaluru can meet its growing water demands.