Shimla, Aug 19,
The Himachal Pradesh Jal Shakti Vibhag is set to implement a monthly water billing system for rural consumers, marking a pivotal change in the state’s approach to water supply. This decision, which affects over 20 lakh water connections, follows the state cabinet’s recent approval.
Under the new system, each water connection will incur a monthly charge of Rs 100. This shift is expected to impact rural consumers significantly, particularly the 50 percent who have multiple connections, resulting in increased costs.
This policy change overturns the previous government’s decision to provide free water in rural areas, a measure introduced by the Jairam government in May 2022, just ahead of the assembly elections. However, the current Sukhu administration, citing financial challenges, has scaled back the free water scheme to benefit only specific categories, including Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, single women, widows, and persons with disabilities. These groups will continue to receive free water, and their information is being integrated into the department’s billing system to ensure accurate implementation.
In addition, the government is planning to install water meters in rural areas to promote efficient water usage and ensure precise billing. Commercial entities such as hotels, homestays, and dhabas located in rural regions will now be subject to commercial water tariffs.
The state government has justified this move as a necessary measure to improve the state’s financial health and generate additional revenue. The Jal Shakti Vibhag has been struggling with rising water supply costs, including electricity bills and increasing staff expenses. By introducing these charges, the government aims to cover operational expenses and reduce reliance on state subsidies.
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Billing is fine but the government should ensure 24hours water supply.
What about the water theft by current & retired employees of water supply department in rural areas. I have seen many such people who are using government water supply to irrigation of there farms !!!!
Mahilaon ke khate main 2500 tho aa gaye
par Ab pani ke 100 ekatha kar ker agle election ki tayri jarur chal rahi hai
Pata hai agli bar tho aana nahi hai par 2 pension tho account main jarur aa jayegi
Baki sab Himachali samajdaar hain