The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has escalated its enforcement measures against drinking water wastage, with fines now reaching up to ₹20,000 for serious violations. During surprise inspections conducted on Monday in Jubilee Hills, the board imposed penalties on five consumers found wasting water during supply hours. Officials also distributed informational leaflets detailing how much water can be lost within just one minute during routine household activities.
The water board has repeatedly appealed to residents to conserve water, but many consumers continue to engage in wasteful practices. Common violations include washing floors and vehicles with drinking water, leaving taps running unnecessarily, and failing to monitor overflowing overhead tanks. The board initially adopted an awareness-focused approach with warnings, but persistent wastage has forced stricter enforcement. Fines now start at ₹1,000 and escalate to ₹5,000, ₹10,000, and ₹20,000 based on the severity of the violation.
The HMWSSB announced that surprise inspections will be intensified across the city during water supply hours. First-time offenders caught wasting drinking water will face fines according to established regulations. However, repeat offenders will face more serious consequences, with the board initiating procedures to disconnect their water connections entirely. Officials emphasized that imposing fines is not the primary objective, but rather a necessary measure to prevent drinking water wastage.
During the Jubilee Hills inspections, officials noted that some consumers were using water responsibly and several residents expressed support for the penalty system. The board stressed that the current situation demands greater awareness about water conservation, particularly given the increasing demand and growing concerns about water availability in the city. Public cooperation is essential to ensure sustainable water management for all residents.
The water board is also taking steps to address wastage within its own infrastructure. With a drinking water pipeline network spanning over 15,000 kilometers, the HMWSSB has directed officials to respond immediately to pipeline leaks and complete repairs within a maximum of 24 hours. Officials have been instructed to identify areas with frequent leaks and address root causes rather than relying solely on temporary fixes. Staff members who fail to respond within the stipulated timeframe after being informed of a leak will face disciplinary action.
The board emphasized that water conservation is a shared responsibility between consumers and service providers. While residents must avoid wastage at home and use only the required amount of water, the HMWSSB will work to prevent losses from pipeline leaks in its network. The board issued a statement saying, “Every drop of water wasted today could become someone else’s drinking water requirement tomorrow,” urging all consumers to use water responsibly and avoid wasting even a single drop.
