Hyderabad: From November 1, 2026, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) will fine tanker owners Rs 5,000 for water wastage. If the same tanker violates the rules a second time, the board will cancel its registration. The move further tightens HMWSSB’s measures against drinking water wastage in the city.
HMWSSB Managing Director K Ashok Reddy issued the orders to the officials concerned on October 24. The orders form special guidelines to curb wastage during tanker transport. Further, the board directed the General Managers of the Operation and Maintenance wings to enforce rules on filling and transport.
According to the board, some tankers within its limits carry water beyond their capacity. Others have no lids or are not closed properly. As a result, water spills onto roads during transport.
The board said this wastes precious drinking water. It also said the spills can cause problems and dangerous conditions for motorists.
Tanker owners told to prevent leaks
According to the orders, filling stations must not fill tankers that leak or have missing or loose lids. The board also asked tanker owners and drivers to take the necessary precautions against wastage.
In addition, managers and in-charges of all filling stations within HMWSSB limits must strictly enforce the rules. They must check tankers for leaks and lid condition before filling. If they find defects, they must not allow filling until the defects are fixed.
Directors, Chief General Managers and General Managers will monitor the implementation of the orders. The board also asked tanker associations to educate their members on the rules and help prevent wastage.
Meanwhile, Ashok Reddy said the aim is to conserve every drop of water. The board said this is necessary in view of the current water resource situation. It added that ensuring drinking water is not wasted in transit is the responsibility of tanker owners and drivers.
The board said it will not tolerate any negligence in saving water. Officials and tanker operators must follow the guidelines, it said.