HDMC to seek govt nod to remove SWM user fee

Hubballi

The Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) will soon request permission from the state government to cancel the Solid Waste Management (SWM) user fee. This comes after the civic body earlier decided to withdraw the Underground Drainage (UGD) user fee and the SWM cess in response to rising public opposition.

In its recent general body meeting, the HDMC council passed a resolution to approach the government for permission to remove the SWM user fee. The fee, introduced along with property tax for the 2025–26 financial year, led to a significant hike in tax burden and triggered protests. The Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) further intensified pressure by calling for a tax boycott.

Following the backlash, an all-party meeting chaired by Mayor Ramanna Badiger on April 21 agreed to drop the UGD fee and SWM cess, but decided to retain the SWM user fee. However, during discussions with KCCI, Mayor Badiger and other leaders gave an assurance that the government would be approached to scrap the remaining fee.

BJP floor leader Veeranna Savadi brought attention to the issue during the meeting, prompting the mayor to direct HDMC Commissioner Rudresh Ghali to send a formal request to the state. It is still unclear whether the proposed withdrawal would be temporary or permanent.

Meanwhile, corporators raised concerns about irregular water supply, which has dropped to once in 10–12 days. Commissioner Ghali acknowledged the issue and assured that electrical works would be carried out to restore regular supply.