Hyderabad logs record 3.36 lakh water tanker bookings in May
HYDERABAD: Hyderabad recorded 3.36 lakh water tanker bookings in May, the highest-ever for the month, as drying borewells, falling groundwater levels and prolonged summer heat increased dependence on tanker supplies across the city.
According to the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB), daily tanker bookings have crossed 15,000 in recent weeks. However, the board has been supplying around 12,000 tankers a day, creating a gap between demand and availability.
The shortage has intensified amid delayed pre-monsoon rainfall and rising water consumption. While May showers usually provide some relief, the city witnessed sustained demand for tanker supplies this year.
IT corridor sees highest demand
Officials said the worst-affected areas are in Hyderabad’s western corridor, including Gachibowli, Kondapur, Madhapur and Manikonda.
The region has seen a decline in groundwater availability due to extensive construction activity, expanding residential projects and growing commercial establishments. HMWSSB estimates that nearly 20% of the city’s tanker demand now comes from the western zone.
Residents of several apartment complexes and gated communities are reportedly facing delays in water deliveries as demand continues to outpace supply.
Old City less affected
Several Old City localities, including Bahadurpura, Golconda and Asif Nagar, continue to have relatively better groundwater availability.
Officials attributed the situation to proximity to water bodies such as the Musi River and Mir Alam Tank, lower levels of urban concretisation and shallower groundwater levels. These areas account for a smaller share of overall tanker bookings despite summer demand.
Groundwater levels decline sharply
Groundwater reserves have fallen significantly in northern, eastern and western suburban areas.
Recent groundwater department data showed water table declines of up to 15 feet compared with the corresponding period last year. The impact has been more pronounced in expanding suburban belts, where population growth and an increase in apartments, hostels and hotels have pushed up water consumption.
Experts cautioned that continued groundwater extraction without adequate recharge measures could worsen the situation in the coming years.
Water Board increases capacity
To address rising demand, the state government and HMWSSB have expanded tanker operations.
Authorities introduced a three-shift operational system to ensure tanker deliveries within 24 hours of booking. The number of filling stations has been increased from 86 to 96, while filling points have risen from 141 to 167.
The tanker fleet has also been expanded from 1,135 vehicles to 1,250. Additional staff and extra tanker trips have been deployed to reduce waiting times.
Officials said drinking water supply through the Krishna and Godavari projects remains stable and is being monitored through grid management systems. The Water Board has assured residents that efforts are underway to maintain uninterrupted supply during the peak summer season.
