Govt. to give possible concessions on water tariff

State Minister of Water Supply Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle yesterday, said that the three-member committee appointed to look into the revision of a proposed 30% water bill hike will consider the maximum concessions that can be offered for users.

Fernandopulle said the water tariff increment usually happens every three years but that this hike was proposed after four years as the last increment was done in 2012. “According to the directives of President Maithripala Sirisena to revise the proposed 30% water tariff hike to be effective from 1 December, a three-member committee was appointed on Tuesday to consider the matter. We will see whether the committee will give possible releases for users,” she said.

Fernandopulle also said that even if the hike is implemented, Samurdhi beneficiaries, low-income households, religious institutions and schools will be exempted. (CG)