World Bank's $426 Million Boost for Bengaluru's Water Security

The World Bank has allocated USD 426 million for a major initiative aimed at improving water security in Bengaluru, India. This funding will benefit more than four million residents, as announced by officials.

The Karnataka Water Security and Resilience Programme seeks to address the city's vulnerability to flooding by rejuvenating its 183 lakes, which serve as critical buffers during heavy rainfall. This initiative will also bolster community preparedness through advanced warning systems, as indicated by the programme's task leaders, Kristoffer Welsien and Anup Karanth. Furthermore, the plan will strengthen the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre.

The programme promises to draw in USD 5 million from private investments to modernize water systems, including the replacement of outdated piping and the introduction of technology such as smart water meters, according to Auguste Tano Kouame, the World Bank's Country Director for India. It also includes connecting over 100,000 households to sewerage systems and building nine Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) to protect the city's water bodies from pollution. Treated wastewater will be repurposed for industry and groundwater replenishment in Greater Bengaluru. The loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development spans 20 years with a five-year grace period.

(With inputs from agencies.)