Water tariffs in the city are set to increase by 3% annually starting April 1, as the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board implements a new automatic revision policy aimed at addressing rising operational costs.
Automatic hike system comes into effect
The decision comes a year after BWSSB increased water tariffs by over 30%, marking the first major revision in 12 years. As part of that notification, the board had announced a yearly 3% increment to avoid large, infrequent hikes.
BWSSB Chairman Dr Ramprasat Manohar V confirmed that the revised rates will take effect from April 1. He noted that while the Karnataka Administrative Reforms Commission had suggested a 5% annual hike, the board opted for a lower 3% increase.
Move aimed at offsetting rising costs
Officials stated that the incremental hike is designed to manage inflation and rising input costs, including electricity and essential commodities required for water supply operations.
Instead of implementing steep hikes at long intervals, the board believes gradual annual increases will ensure financial stability while minimising sudden burden on consumers.
BWSSB currently supplies water to nearly 12 lakh households across Bengaluru and continues to operate under a revenue deficit, making periodic tariff adjustments necessary.
Political opposition calls it “anti-people”
The move has drawn criticism from political leaders and civic voices. Former councillor N R Ramesh termed the automatic hike “anti-people” and called for its immediate withdrawal.
He argued that following earlier increases in water tariffs and sanitary cess, the annual revision mechanism places an additional burden on citizens. Critics have also questioned the lack of periodic review, calling the system undemocratic.
Impact on consumers
In addition to tariff revisions, BWSSB had earlier increased charges for both domestic and non-domestic users, including sanitary fees for borewell connections.
With the new system in place, residents can expect incremental increases in their monthly bills every year, aligning with inflation but also raising concerns over affordability for middle- and lower-income households.