The BWSSB Building.
Credit: DH File Photo
Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is set to launch the fifth phase of the Cauvery Water Supply Scheme (CWSS) in Mandya's Thorekadanahalli village on Wednesday.
To mark the occasion, the BWSSB has mandated the presence of all 4,500 officers and employees.
In a circular dated October 9, the chief administrative officer and secretary of the BWSSB instructed department heads to ensure staff attendance at the inaugural ceremony, happening approximately 100 km from Bengaluru.
A day's leave has been granted only for medical emergencies and other urgent reasons, according to the circular.
Engineers surprised
Some BWSSB engineers expressed surprise at the directive, noting that such a mandate is unprecedented.
"What is the point of requiring all officers and employees to attend the inauguration? Who will address complaints related to water supply and sanitation issues?" one engineer questioned.
A senior BWSSB official clarified that while the department issues such circulars, employees typically understand that attendance at launch events is not compulsory.
"This is a routine circular. There’s no need to overanalyse it. Some engineers will remain in Bengaluru to handle emergency complaints," the official stated.