BWSSB simplifies process to obtain RR numbers

The move is aimed at regularising unauthorised connections

PLUGGING THE LEAK: At present, the number of metered connections is only 6 lakh, while the number of properties are far more. File Photo: V. Sreenivasa Murthy

Worried over the increasing number of unauthorised connections and the resultant loss of revenue and water, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has now simplified the process to obtain the RR (Revenue Receipt) Number and get connections regularised.

In a press release, the BWSSB said consumers have to compulsorily have RR Numbers for their water, sanitary and borewell connections.

The process has been simplified so that consumers do not dodge applying for the number. The existing rules which mandate submitting the sanctioned building plan, khata certificate or tax paid receipt issued by a competent local authority have now been relaxed.

BWSSB officials have been asked to collect available documents such as sale deed of the property, telephone bill, electricity bill or even ration card, along with an undertaking from the owner that he would not object to disconnection in case the property is found to be involved in any legal disputes, the release said.

According to Section 5.1 of the BWSSB Act 1964, the owner or lessee or occupant of the premises has to submit an application in the prescribed form through a licensed plumber to the respective sub-division, along with sanctioned plan, khata certificate or tax paid receipt issued by a competent local authority.

Easing the rules

“However, it has come to the board’s notice that many property owners/occupants, especially in newly added areas and in slums, do not have these vital documents because of various reasons. They would have taken water and sanitary connections without a RR number. Such connections do not yield any revenue to the board,” the release said.

A senior official said the customer-friendly move is to ensure that all unauthorised connections are regularised before the Cauvery IV Stage II Phase is commissioned. “As of now, the number of metered connections is only 6 lakh, while the number of properties are far more. So, we are planning to collaborate with the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), using their property identification numbers to cross-check the water and sanitary connections,” a senior official pointed out.