BRIC Team reports: Karnataka is positioning itself as a national leader in artificial intelligence (AI)-driven urban water governance, with AI and digital technologies set to play a central role in managing future challenges such as climate change, rapid urbanisation, groundwater depletion, and infrastructure stress, Shalini Rajneesh, Chief Secretary, Karnataka, said on Wednesday, at the National AI and Digital Water Summit 2026, organised by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). “AI and digital intelligence are no longer optional tools for urban utilities. Real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, demand forecasting, and data-driven governance will define the future of water management,” she said, highlighting the growing pressure on cities like Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Dharwad, and Belagavi.BWSSB Chairman V.
Ram Prasath Manohar said the board was serving more than 14 million citizens.“BWSSB has reduced Non-Revenue Water (leakage) from over 50% to nearly 26.5%, resulting in savings of nearly 200 million litres of water per day. AI-driven energy optimisation initiatives have identified nearly ₹42 crore worth of avoidable annual electricity expenditure across pumping systems. AI is not about dashboards.
Background
It is about predictive governance, accountability, and measurable outcomes. We are moving from reactive operations towards intelligent utility management,” he said.Tushar Giri Nath, Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development Department, Karnataka, said technology alone cannot bring about transformative change; AI systems can only achieve success when complemented by institutional frameworks, government mechanisms, and human cooperation. Giving the example of Israel, he said only when governments, academic institutions, startups, industries, and local bodies work together in synergy, results can be achieved.
Key facts
- “AI and digital intelligence are no longer optional tools for urban utilities.
- AI-driven energy optimisation initiatives have identified nearly ₹42 crore worth of avoidable annual electricity expenditure across pumping systems.
- It is about predictive governance, accountability, and measurable outcomes.
What this means
Orli Weitzman, Consul General of Israel in Bengaluru, said Israel, which once faced severe water scarcity, overcame it through continuous technological innovation, bold government policies, and comprehensive public participation. “Today, Israel successfully recycles 90% of its wastewater. We have brought water leakages down to an absolute minimum through the efficient use of AI and smart water grids,” she said, adding Israel was ready to share the technology and experience with Karnataka and BWSSB, in particular.
