■ Mandatory rainwater pits enforced; 16,000 notices issued so far

■ Rate hikes and penalties likely for homes without harvesting systems.

■ Tankers in operation: 1,135

■ Filling stations: 88

■ Filling points: 140

■ Total domestic connections in city: Rs14 lakh

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Hyderabad is facing an unprecedented spike in water tanker demand this July, with a sharp 36% rise compared to the same period last year. From July 1 to 14, 2025, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) recorded 86,520 tanker bookings—up from 63,724 during the same fortnight in 2024.

Officials attribute this steep increase to delayed and inadequate monsoon rains for the third consecutive year. Groundwater levels across the city have plummeted, forcing thousands of residents to depend on tanker supply. In response, HMWSSB Managing Director Ashok Reddy has instructed field officials to prioritize swift tanker delivery and ramp up operational readiness.

Currently, 1,135 tankers operate in two shifts daily, supported by 88 filling stations and 140 filling points. Despite the rise in demand, HMWSSB was able to deliver 78,147 tankers within the service level agreement (SLA), while 1,762 deliveries were delayed. In contrast, the same period in 2024 saw 6,127 delays, showing improved efficiency even amid increased bookings. Day-wise data shows the highest increase in demand occurred on July 1, with a 58% spike. Other significant increases include July 11 (33%), July 12 (33%), and July 14 (36%).

Division-wise, the most significant increase in tanker bookings was recorded in Division 11 (L.B. Nagar), which jumped by 272%—from 276 in 2024 to 1,027 in 2025. Riyasath Nagar followed closely with a 257% surge. Charminar (117%), Vinay Nagar (93%), and Alwal-Malkajgiri (86%) also witnessed steep rises. Areas like S.R. Nagar (13,660 bookings), Durgamcheruvu (17,829), Kukatpally (10,782), and Manikonda (9,822) continue to be among the top consumers of tanker water.

Despite 14 lakh domestic water connections in the city, only about 42,000 households actively book tankers. Worryingly, just 500 consumers accounted for over 31,000 bookings in a 75-day period. A deeper audit revealed that many of these heavy users do not have rainwater harvesting pits on their premises.

In light of this, the Water Board has launched a 90-day special drive to enforce rainwater harvesting. Over 16,000 notices have been issued to violators. Officials warn of potential hikes in tanker rates for non-compliant households and have begun listing such properties. Citizens are urged to adopt water conservation methods to ensure long-term sustainability.