Bengaluru Water Tariff Hike Imminent: Deputy CM DK Shivakumar

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Thursday that a water tariff hike is imminent for Bengaluru residents, though the exact amount has not yet been determined. He explained that the water tariff in Bengaluru has remained unchanged for approximately 13 years, which has led to financial challenges for the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), including difficulties in paying staff salaries and power bills.

Shivakumar emphasized that if the tariff is not increased, BWSSB’s survival could be at risk, despite potential opposition from various leaders. He welcomed discussions on the tariff hike, noting that Bengaluru’s population of 1.4 crore requires an expanded water supply network to ensure reliable service. He indicated that expansion might necessitate loans. Shivakumar also ruled out privatization of the water supply, recalling past discussions during the tenures of former Chief Ministers J.H. Patel and S.M. Krishna.

He mentioned his research in France, which led to the conclusion that local engineers handle water supply better than some foreign counterparts. Additionally, Shivakumar discussed proposals to draw water from the Krishna Raja Sagar reservoir and River Sharavathy, though the latter faces local opposition.