HMWSSB Sets Rs 5K Fine for Water-Wasting Tankers, Registration at Risk for Violations

The water board has warned tanker operators against overfilling and unsafe transportation, directing officials to deny filling access to defective vehicles and enforce strict compliance.

Water tankers spilling drinking water on Hyderabad’s roads will face a Rs 5,000 fine from November 1, while a second violation will lead to cancellation of registration, under new enforcement measures announced by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB).

The board identified cases of tankers being filled beyond capacity and vehicles operating without lids or with improperly secured covers, causing water to spill during transit. The problem results in the loss of valuable drinking water and can create hazards for road users.

HMWSSB Managing Director K. Ashok Reddy issued fresh instructions to officials on October 24, directing stricter checks at filling stations and action against tanker operators who fail to follow the prescribed rules. Defective tankers barred from filling

The board has directed general managers of its Operation and Maintenance divisions to enforce these requirements.

Filling station managers and in-charges must check each tanker for leaks and ensure its lid is properly secured before permitting water to be filled. Vehicles that fail the inspection must be turned away until the necessary repairs are completed.

Directors, chief general managers and general managers have been tasked with monitoring implementation. Tanker associations have also been asked to inform their members about the new requirements and cooperate with the board.

Water board has stressed that tanker owners and drivers must ensure that drinking water reaches cdonsumers without avoidable losses. The new measures place responsibility on operators to maintain their vehicles and comply with transportation requirements.

The crackdown comes as Hyderabad steps up efforts to conserve drinking water and improve the use of available resources. Preventing spillage during tanker deliveries is one way to reduce losses between filling stations and consumers, while stricter inspections are intended to ensure that only properly maintained vehicles are used for supply.