Hyderabad Water Tanker Bookings Surge 36% as Summer Approaches
Hyderabad is witnessing an early onset of summer water stress, with bookings for water tankers experiencing a significant surge across the city as temperatures begin their gradual ascent. This development signals the beginning of seasonal water scarcity challenges that typically intensify in the coming months.
Sharp Increase in Daily Tanker Demand
According to recent data, nearly 50,000 water tankers had been booked by February 16, representing an average of approximately 3,000 tankers per day. This marks a substantial increase from January's figures, when around 70,000 tankers were booked throughout the entire month, averaging about 2,200 tankers daily.
The statistics reveal a 36% increase in daily tanker demand between January and the first half of February, indicating a steady escalation in water requirements as groundwater levels begin to decline and household consumption rises with the warming weather.
Officials Anticipate Further Escalation
Municipal authorities expect these numbers to climb even higher in March, when the peak summer season officially commences. This anticipated increase correlates with the typical reduction in borewell output that occurs in several areas as water tables drop during the hottest months of the year.
An official from the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) explained, "We are preparing for increased demand as we enter the traditional summer months when water scarcity becomes more pronounced across the city."
Improved Situation Compared to Previous Year
Despite the concerning upward trend in tanker bookings, authorities have noted that the current situation represents a measurable improvement from the same period last year. According to HMWSSB data, tanker demand has decreased by approximately 20% compared to February of the previous year.
The official attributed this positive development to two primary factors: adequate rainfall during the previous monsoon season and the increased installation of rainwater harvesting systems in residential areas throughout Hyderabad.
"The combination of better rainfall and more widespread adoption of rainwater harvesting technologies has helped mitigate what could have been a more severe water crisis," the HMWSSB representative added.
Residential Preparedness and Conservation Efforts
The increase in rainwater harvesting installations represents a significant shift in how Hyderabad residents are approaching water conservation. This proactive measure has helped reduce dependence on municipal water supplies and commercial tanker services during periods of scarcity.
However, officials emphasize that continued vigilance and conservation efforts remain essential as the city moves deeper into the summer season, when water resources traditionally face their greatest strain.
