HMWSSB steps up action against drinking water wastage in Hyderabad

The move follows repeated appeals by the Water Board asking residents to use drinking water judiciously. Officials said some consumers continue to use potable water for washing floors and vehicles, leave taps running unnecessarily or allow overhead tanks to overflow.

As part of the latest enforcement drive, HMWSSB officials conducted surprise inspections in Jubilee Hills on Monday morning and identified five consumers who were found wasting drinking water. Fines were imposed on them under the applicable regulations.

The Board said penalties for violations have ranged from ₹1,000 to ₹20,000, depending on the nature and seriousness of the violation. It has now warned that consumers caught wasting drinking water for a second time could face disconnection of their water supply.

The HMWSSB said imposing fines was not its primary objective and that the larger aim was to prevent wastage and encourage responsible consumption. The Board has urged residents to recognise the importance of conserving water amid concerns over rainfall and increasing demand.

The enforcement will also extend to the Water Board's own network. With a drinking-water pipeline network extending over 15,000 km, officials have been directed to respond promptly to leaks and complete necessary repairs within a maximum of 24 hours after they are identified. Officials and staff found negligent in responding to reported leaks could also face action.

The HMWSSB urged citizens to treat water conservation as a shared responsibility, stressing that preventing wastage at both the consumer and distribution levels is essential.