Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister DK Shivakumar has announced that a water tariff hike in Bengaluru is unavoidable. He stated that the ongoing financial difficulties faced by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) necessitate an increase in tariffs, which is expected to be between 20-30%.
Shivakumar justified the hike, stating that there has been no increase in water tariffs for the past 12-13 years, and without it, the board could face collapse. “There has been no water tariff hike in the last 12-13 years. The BWSSB is managing its finances with great difficulty. Water tariff hike is inevitable and it will be done irrespective of any opposition to it,” he said while inaugurating the ‘Cauvery water at your doorstep’ campaign.
While the hike is confirmed, the exact amount and the specific segments of the population affected are still being determined. “We are still determining the exact amount and the segments to which the hike will apply,” Shivakumar clarified. He emphasized that without an increase in tariffs, the BWSSB might be unable to sustain its operations, including supporting its employees and managing basic costs like electricity bills. “It is imperative to supply water to 140 crore people of Bengaluru. It is difficult to do so without investing in a larger distribution network,” Shivakumar added.
The deputy chief minister also addressed the rising electricity costs, stating that the increase in electricity prices over the past 14 years has significantly impacted the BWSSB’s operations. He highlighted the need for a more efficient water distribution network to manage the city’s water supply effectively.
Addressing proposals for privatizing BWSSB services, Shivakumar firmly rejected the idea. He cited past experiences where privatization led to increased costs without delivering substantial benefits. “Despite many proposals and past experiences, including a study I conducted on water utility privatization in France, I am resolute in opposing privatization of public utilities,” he said. “Adani and other companies have taken up responsibility for utilities in many cities including Mumbai. But I firmly told them that I would not allow the privatisation of public utilities. There have been many proposals for privatisation of utilities even during the times of JH Patel and SM Krishna,” he added.
