Navigating B'luru's climate challenge: A call to sustainable action

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: Climate change is undeniably real, largely fueled by human greed and shortsightedness.

We've tampered with nature far beyond what's sustainable, jeopardising our long-term well-being. Not long ago, Bengaluru boasted one of India's most pleasant climates.

I recall wearing sleeveless sweaters even during summer. However, rapid urbanisation has transformed it into a concrete expanse, increasingly impermeable to water.

Consequently, the city grapples with flooding during monsoons while facing acute water scarcity during dry spells.

Despite being located near the River Cauvery, we resort to pumping water from a source 100 km away and 1000 feet below.

Rajkumar Dug ar the founder of CITIZENS FOR CITIZENS said, “We champion rainwater harvesting pits to mitigate flooding and replenish groundwater. Encouragingly, the BWSSB has initiated similar projects in certain areas. Additionally, we have installed water bowls for wildlife, urging locals to maintain them to prevent dehydration-induced deaths among animals and birds.”

Recently, C4C procured and installed 100 aerators on taps across various locations, including a government school and a police station.

These aerators, with strategically placed holes, reduce water flow while maintaining perceived pressure, potentially saving significant amounts of water. In Bengaluru alone, installing aerators on all taps could conserve millions of litres daily.

Rajkumar Dugar shared, “Our three-pronged approach aims to conserve water, raise awareness, and inspire community action. We urge BWSSB to facilitate aerator availability, akin to BESCOM's LED bulb initiative. However, our biggest challenge remains public apathy and short-lived memory. As the current heatwave recedes and rains return, the urgency for conservation wanes, along with public concern about escalating climate change impacts.”

Rajkumar Dugar emphasised, "Aerators should ideally feature holes only around the outer ring. Many inexpensive options flood the market with aerators that have holes scattered across their surface, which negates their efficiency."

He encourages citizens to invest in well-researched aerators from reputable sellers.