The government is working on introducing a rating system for water fixtures similar to the star ratings of electrical appliances. This was informed by D Thara, Additional Secretary, MoHUA and Mission Director, AMRUT 2.0. She revealed this in Bengaluru while addressing a technical panel discussion at the recently concluded Plumbex India 2023, an initiative by the Indian Plumbing Association (IPA) and supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and Ministry of Jal Shakti. 

Talking about the project, Thara informed, “The Government is in the process of bringing in a rating system for water fixtures similar to the star rating of electrical appliances. The new rating system will have 3, 4 and 5 star water fixtures based on their water efficiency and this rating system will come under one umbrella that is Bharat Tap. We have now roped in the Indian Plumbing Association and all manufactures to adopt and promote these standards and bring in water efficient fixtures.”

Sharing more details about Bharat tap, she said, “It is a collaborative effort which was formulated under AMRUT 2.0 to drive water efficiency, and this can be achieved only if water outlets are efficient, be it sanitary fixtures or taps. Data derived from this initiative shows that on an average over 30 per cent of water can be saved. The issue that we face today is that there is not enough data available to consumers to assist them in making informed decisions when purchasing sanitary fixtures. We need to start quantifying how much water is wasted in each activity and how it adds to the overall cost of water.”

Gurmit Singh Arora, National President of the Indian Plumbing Association (IPA) said, “Technology is key to saving water, at Plumbex India 2023 we have some of the most disruptive startups in the industry showcasing innovative products and technology that will transform the plumbing and sanitaryware industry. Based on Ms D Thara’s recommendation we at IPA have now committed to save 10,000 crore litres of water this year alone. We urge the government to make low flow fixtures as a key criterion while awarding tenders in the future. We welcome, the new star rating system for water fixture which will be introduced by the Government, it is a excellent step to empower consumers to make the right decisions while purchasing sanitary equipment”