Bengaluru hotels offer pool party, rain dance on holi, amidst severe water crisis

There are some voices advocating for a more responsible celebration. Sunburn Union Koramangala is urging people to opt for a dry Holi celebration, citing reasons like water conservation,

environmental protection, and inclusivity. Their approach focuses on traditional festivities like singing and dancing, along with offering herbal colors to promote a healthier celebration.

Hotel Leela Palace takes a different approach, offering a more traditional "Phoolon ki Holi" (flower Holi) experience. Bengaluru's water situation is dire. Dwindling supplies

from the Cauvery River, the city's main source, combined with a drop in groundwater levels, have forced the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to make it mandatory to

take prior approval before drilling borewells in its limits. Bengaluru relies on approximately 1,450 MLD (million litres per day) of water from the Cauvery River and an additional 700 MLD

from underground sources. However, due to limited availability from both sources, various industries, institutions, and residents are experiencing severe consequences, including depleted

reservoirs, strict water rationing, and dry borewells. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that even the borewell at his residence has run dry, stressing the gravity of the

situation. Over 3,000 borewells in Bengaluru are now without water. TNM tried reaching out to other hotels and resorts but didn't receive a response. This article will be updated as and

when we hear from them. When TNM contacted BWSSB officials, it was understood that the authority was unaware of any such celebrations and that it did not have any plans to restrict such

parties.