Gas, Electricity

BESCOM (Bangalore Electricity SupplyCompnay) is responsible for power distribution across the eight districts of Karnataka. It provides electricity to an area of 41,092 sq. kms. with a population of over 139 lakhs. The company has three operating zones - Bangalore Metropolitan Area Zone, Bangalore Rural Area Zone and Chitradurga Zone. The electricity situation in Bangalore is relatively good, with minimum power outages taking place. The voltage centres around 240 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. If you're carrying any electric equipment that is not compatible with the voltage in Bangalore, it is advisable to carry a voltage converter with you. You can get voltage converters, for adjusting the electric current, in Bangalore as well. Two pin and three pin plugs are used. For more information on electricity in Bangalore, click here.

Unlike in most western countries, gas is normally provided to households in gas cylinders. This is a privatised set up and you'll have to get a connection from one of the many gas providers in the city. In general, household have two gas cylinders. So when one gets empty, you can use the second cylinder while ordering a replacement for the empty one. Click here for a list of gas agencies in Bangalore.

Water

The Bangalore Water Supply Board and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is responsible for providing the city with potable water.

About 80% of the water required by the city is provided by the River Cauveri. BWSSB currently provides 900 million litres of water to the city every day though the required amount is 1.3 billion litres. The result is water shortage.

The BWSSB is also responsible for the city's sewerage management. Despite a massive expansion in sewerage facilities, more are needed to meet the city's requirements.

To find out more on questions related to water supply in your area of residence, click here.