• Source:JND

Bengaluru News: As Bengaluru is facing significant water crisis, the Karnataka government is likely to revise the Cauvery water tariffs for the first time in 13 years. This decision comes as officials seek to manage the city's growing demand for water and ensure the financial stability of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB).

In addition to the water tariff changes, the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) has submitted its first Multi-Year Tariff (MYT) application to the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission. The proposal includes an increase of 67 paise per unit for the year 2025-26, followed by a hike of 75 paise for 2026-27 and 91 paise for 2027-28. Bescom officials indicated that these increases are necessary due to anticipated rises in demand in the coming years.

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When questioned about the proposed power tariff hikes, Karnataka Minister K J George stated, "It is a routine process... all stakeholders will be consulted." He acknowledged issues related to historical pension fund arrears from the Karnataka Electricity Board and noted the current shortage of resources. "We have to wait and see," he added, referring to the ongoing discussions.

Bengaluru Water Tariff Hike

Currently, the minimum slab tariff for domestic water consumers stands at Rs 7 per kilolitre, with the highest slab reaching Rs 45 per kilolitre. The fixed minimum charge for domestic users is Rs 56. This revision aims to address the fiscal challenges facing the BWSSB while meeting the city's increasing water needs.

Bengaluru Electricity Tariff Hike

In terms of electricity, the recent proposal by Bescom indicates that consumers will face annual tariff increases until 2028. However, Minister George assured that the increases would not impact the average household significantly, as the current government provides 200 units of free electricity to qualifying households.

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Bengaluru Electricity Tariff Hike To Affect THESE Consumers

Government officials have confirmed that the forthcoming schemes will not affect those benefiting from free electricity initiatives. Therefore, the burden of the tariff hikes will primarily fall on consumers not enrolled in these schemes.

This announcement follows other recent increases in prices for essential services, including milk, petrol, diesel and stamp duty. The Siddaramaiah-led Congress government has previously raised electricity prices soon after taking office, indicating a pattern of increasing costs for residents.

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