The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), worried about students not drinking enough water, passed a notice of motion on Thursday that a bell should be rung in schools thrice a day, to remind them to drink water. While the concept that began in a Kerala school will have to be approved by the municipal commissioner before implementation in schools, some schools say they already have a routine for students regarding drinking water. Parents have called the BMC decision a positive move.

Shiv Sena corporator Sachin Padwal had suggested the idea which was passed in the House, on November 15. Padwal said children spend 5 to 7 hours in school and in that period, they should drink water at least thrice. "Drinking water is essential for health. But many students forget to do so, or avoid it as they are busy with studies and play. So I suggested that schools have a bell rung thrice a day to remind students to drink water," he said. The initiative began in Kerala schools after authorities realised that students, especially girls, do not drink enough water to avoid going to the toilet.