Earlier, there was no such permission and if the BMC officials found any tank, empty or filled, the family was charged under the BMC Act and fined. No new well, tank, pond, cistern or fountain shall be dug or constructed without permission in writing of the Commissioner, the BMC Act states.

Considering that there was often no chance of storing water during supply hours, the BMC has decided to amend the Act.

Last month two residents of a building in Santacruz (W) were convicted and fined Rs 250 each for constructing water tanks inside their residence. The tanks which violated section 381-A of the BMC Act were found during inspection by the civic Pest Control Department personnel.

However, the residents moved the Sessions Court to appeal against the conviction earlier this month. While admitting the appeal Additional SessionsJudge Abhay Thipsay directed notices to be issued to the BMC.