The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (Water Board) has issued strict guidelines to stop drinking water wastage during transportation by water tankers. Water Board Managing Director K. Ashok Reddy gave orders to the officials concerned on October 24.
The Water Board found that some tankers within its jurisdiction are filled beyond capacity. Others have no lids or improperly closed lids. As a result, water spills onto roads during transit. The Board noted that this wastes precious drinking water. It also causes inconvenience to motorists and can create hazardous situations on roads.
From November 1, 2026, a fine of Rs.5,000 will be imposed on the tanker owner if water wastage through a tanker is identified. If the same tanker violates the rules a second time, its registration will be canceled. Tanker owners and drivers have been advised to take the necessary precautions to prevent wastage.
The Board has directed the General Managers of the Operation and Maintenance departments to enforce the mandatory rules for water filling and transportation. Filling stations must not allow water to be filled in tankers that have leaks, no lids, or improperly closed lids.
Managers and in-charges at all filling stations under the Water Board have been ordered to implement the rules strictly. They must check each tanker for leaks and lid condition before filling. Filling is not permitted until defects are fixed. Relevant Directors, Chief General Managers and General Managers have been told to monitor implementation. Tanker associations have been asked to create awareness among their members and cooperate in preventing wastage.
The Water Board stressed the need to save every drop of water, citing the current state of water resources. It stated that ensuring the drinking water supplied to the public is not wasted in transit is the responsibility of tanker owners and drivers. The Board said it will not tolerate negligence and that officials and tanker operators must follow the guidelines.
