Bengaluru to see dry Holi? No rain dances, pool parties as use of water 'prohibited in public interest'

Bengaluru is expected to have a dry Holi this year. The IT hub of India has been facing acute water crisis which is why it won't see any rain dances and pool parties on Monday, March 25 when the rest of the country enjoys the festival of colours.

'Prohibited in Public Interest' 

As one of its measures to fight the water shortage in Bengaluru, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has appealed to commercial and recreational establishments not to use Cauvery River and borewell water for pool parties and rain dances while celebrating Holi.

"Organising entertainment like rain dances and pool parties for commercial purposes is not advisable at this time. Using Cauvery water and borewell water is prohibited in the public interest," BWSSB said in its order.

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Why no rain dance, pool parties on Holi in Bengaluru?

The BWSSB officials said the decision has been taken as many borewells in Bengaluru have dried up due to the decline in groundwater levels caused by rain deficiency.

With these rules, the board has also stressed that Holi is "a festival celebrating Hindu culture" and "no restrictions" have been imposed on celebrating it at home.

It also urged everyone to cooperate effectively.

Also Read: Bengaluru Water Crisis: Tap aerators installation drive begins; Here's what happens if you miss March 31 deadline

Despite the order, some hotels are reportedly selling tickets for pool parties organised for Holi celebrations.

In Bengaluru's Bettadasanapura, Lago Palms Resort is organising an "open-air - pool Holi festival" with pool and rain disco and is selling the tickets at Rs 199 onwards on BookMyShow for the event.

Also, J K Grand Arena in Kengeri Satellite Town of Bengaluru is organising Rang De Bengaluru 2024 for the “Holi Rain Dance Party" at Rs 199 onwards.

Also Read: Bengaluru parched but Karnataka Dy CM says 'no water crisis', hotels host rain dance, pool parties on Holi

Bangalore is facing an acute water crisis, with a shortage of about 500 million litres of water per day. This city is facing such a situation due to a number of factors, including rainfall deficit, and depleting groundwater.

With inputs from agencies