Karnataka's Water Charge Revision is Necessary, Asserts D. K. Shivakumar
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Synopsis
On January 28, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar announced the need for a revision of water charges, which have remained unchanged for over a decade. He highlighted the financial implications and discussed measures to address illegal connections and outstanding bills.
Key Takeaways
- Water charges in Karnataka have not been adjusted in 11 years.
- Shivakumar plans to reintroduce a subsidy for slum dwellers.
- A One-Time Settlement for pending bills is being considered.
- Tenders for a major tunnel road project will be released soon.
- A new system for B-Khata properties will be announced shortly.
Bengaluru, Jan 28 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar stated on Tuesday that the revision of water charges is unavoidable in the state, as it has remained unchanged for the last 11 years.
Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar, who also serves as the Bengaluru Development Minister, mentioned that once the report regarding the proposed increase in water prices is finalized, necessary actions will follow.
This statement came after a meeting with officials from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA), Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), and Bengaluru Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA) held at Cauvery Bhavan in Bengaluru.
He emphasized that measures will be implemented to regularize illegal water connections and to keep records of water usage and connections.
Addressing concerns about the potential impact of drinking water price increases on citizens already struggling with inflation, the Deputy Chief Minister remarked, "The water bill in Bengaluru has not been updated in the past 11 years, leading to an annual loss of Rs 1,000 crore for BWSSB."
Shivakumar asserted that the Congress government plans to reinstate the Rs 20 crore subsidy designated for providing water to slum dwellers and the underprivileged, which was terminated by the previous BJP government.
Regarding outstanding water bills, he has instructed officials to draft a report on launching a One-Time Settlement scheme for defaulters.
Additionally, he mentioned that tenders for the Rs 17,780 crore tunnel road project are expected to be announced by the end of February.
In response to opposition from BJP MP P. C. Mohan concerning the tunnel road project, Shivakumar clarified, "This project does not necessitate land acquisition as it will be constructed underground."
Concerning the B-Khata properties in Bengaluru, Shivakumar revealed that a groundbreaking system, unprecedented in the country, will be introduced in Bengaluru soon, with a detailed announcement anticipated next week.
