Water Board Makes Soak Pit Mandatory for New Water Connections in ORR Areas

• Soak pit mandatory for water connections rule
• ORR areas face new Water Board regulation
• Groundwater improvement through soak pits planned

In a major step towards improving groundwater levels, the Hyderabad Water Board has made soak pits mandatory for residents seeking new water connections in areas merged beyond the Outer Ring Road.

The decision comes as authorities observed a sharp increase in applications for new connections from recently merged regions. Officials noted that a large number of households in these areas lack proper water infrastructure, prompting stricter regulations.

Under the new rule, applicants must construct a soak pit before applying for a water connection. However, the condition applies primarily to houses built on plots exceeding a specified size. Authorities believe this measure will help recharge groundwater and address declining water levels in these zones.

The expansion of the Water Board’s jurisdiction has added a significant area under its service, leading to a surge in monthly applications. A major share of these requests is now coming from the newly merged regions outside the ORR.

To ensure effective implementation, officials have set an ambitious target of constructing thousands of soak pits within a short time frame. Each nodal officer has been assigned specific targets to achieve within the stipulated period.

Authorities have made it clear that no water connection will be granted without compliance with the new rule. The move is aimed at promoting responsible water usage while preparing the region for better water sustainability, especially ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.

Officials say this initiative is not just a regulation but a necessary step to safeguard future water resources and prevent further depletion of groundwater in rapidly developing urban areas.