Karnataka government’s proposed green building policy will extend tax incentives to property owners adopting certain green buildings measures, according to UT Khader, Karnataka Urban Development Minister.

Speaking at the inauguration of a workshop on rainwater harvesting at Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat on Wednesday, he said the government’s proposed green building policy aims at providing tax incentives to encourage rainwater harvesting, tree plantation and solar lighting in new constructions.

In many parts of the cities, concrete cover leaves little space for rainwater to percolate into the ground. This is one of the reasons for the water scarcity in urban areas during summer.

Tax incentives

Those who fail to adhere to green building policy norms can also face stringent action, he said.

Stating that discussions are on in this matter, Khader said the policy will be implemented soon.

Shree Padre, an expert on rainwater harvesting, who was the resource person on the occasion, said it is essential for the government to create awareness on the need for rainwater harvesting along with extending tax incentives.

Referring to some places in Rajasthan and other States, he said water conservation practices adopted by the people in those regions have helped them to tide over the water scarcity in spite of scanty rainfall.

Karnataka is yet to focus on water conservation methods such as rainwater harvesting in spite of grave water scarcity in many areas, he said.

Highlighting the importance of traditional water conservation structures in coastal Karnataka, he said there is need to restore and revive them before they vanish.

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