Annual water rate hike begins in city

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has announced a hike in water rates, effective retrospectively from April 1. This is the first revision in 11 years, and going forward, water charges will automatically increase by 3% annually every April without requiring government approval. The state government has given its nod to this policy.

Speaking to reporters, BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar said, "Water tariffs haven't been revised since 2014, even though our electricity expenses have tripled. With Cauvery Stage V underway, monthly operational losses have risen, causing a significant financial burden."

The rate revision is backed by the BWSSB Act of 1994, and the decision was taken during an urgent board meeting. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also gave necessary directions, stressing that the hike should not heavily affect the public.

The BWSSB plans to implement similar hikes over the next two years to stabilize finances.

Estimated Monthly Impact:

• Household Users: Increase of ₹20–30 for water, ₹10–15 for sanitation—total hike up to ₹50.

• Commercial Users: Increase of ₹50–60 for water—total hike up to ₹100.

Detailed Slab-Wise Increase:

• Domestic Connection: Max hike of ₹0.01 per litre

• 0–8,000 litres: ₹0.15/litre increase

• 8,000–25,000 litres: ₹0.40/litre increase

• 25,000–50,000 litres: ₹0.80/litre increase

• 50,000–1,00,000 litres: ₹1/litre increase