Confused By Water Bills? Bengaluru To Get AI Smart Meters For Accurate Billing

Last Updated:February 18, 2026, 16:38 IST

Traditional mechanical meters can fail to record usage correctly when water pressure fluctuates or when flow is very low. This can result in inaccurate bills.

For many Bengaluru residents and businesses, water bills have often been a source of confusion and frustration. Sudden spikes in charges, disputes over meter readings and delays in detecting leaks have led to repeated complaints, especially among apartment complexes, commercial establishments and other bulk water users.

In response to these long-standing concerns, the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is planning to introduce AI based smart water meters aimed at improving billing accuracy and reducing wastage.

Traditional mechanical meters can fail to record usage correctly when water pressure fluctuates or when flow is very low. This can result in inaccurate bills, disputes between consumers and the utility, and undetected leakages that lead to higher charges and water loss.

With Bengaluru’s growing population and increasing dependence on piped water, ensuring fair billing and efficient usage has become a priority.

How smart meters will benefit consumers

The proposed AI enabled meters will initially be installed for bulk water consumers such as apartment complexes, industries and commercial buildings. However, officials say the benefits will ultimately extend to the wider system.

Key benefits include:

• Accurate billing based on real time consumption

• Early detection of leakages to prevent water loss and high bills

• Alerts for abnormal usage patterns

• Improved transparency and reduced billing disputes

• Better monitoring of overall water supply efficiency

Unlike conventional meters, the digital system can detect anomalies instantly and provide precise data, making it easier for users to understand and manage their consumption.

Technology already improving water management

BWSSB has been adopting technology driven solutions to improve efficiency. The AI Integrated SCADA Management System now helps monitor and control the water supply network more effectively.

The i PumpNet system, which uses AI enabled pumps in pumping stations and sewage treatment plants, has improved operational efficiency and helped the board save about Rs 40 crore annually.

Tracking groundwater and environmental impact

AI based IoT sensors have also been installed to monitor groundwater levels and environmental impact in real time. Officials say this helps measure the effectiveness of lake rejuvenation efforts and groundwater recharge initiatives across the city.

The AI based smart meter proposal was announced by BWSSB Chairman Dr V. Ram Prasat Manohar during the AI Impact Summit, where he highlighted the board’s efforts to modernise Bengaluru’s water management system.

If implemented, the initiative could reduce billing disputes, improve leak detection and promote responsible water use, offering Bengaluru residents greater transparency and reliability in water supply management.

News cities bengaluru-news Confused By Water Bills? Bengaluru To Get AI Smart Meters For Accurate Billing