THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Followed by raising electricity tariffs, the Kerala government has also decided to increase water taxes. Starting from April 1, there will be a rise in water tax rates, going from 1 percent to a 5 percent hike. The Kerala Water Authority is set to present their recommendation to the government in February.
At the beginning of this year (2023), the water tax was raised by one paisa per liter. Consequently, the average consumer in Kerala, who previously paid around Rs 22, saw an abrupt increase of around Rs 72 due to the one-paisa-per-liter hike.
In this situation, with the new water tax increase scheduled for April, average households currently paying Rs 176 can expect to pay around Rs 576.
After yesterday’s electricity tariff hike, this decision to increase the water tax includes an average increase of up to 20 paise per unit for electricity. The tariff hike is not applicable for those consuming less than 40 units per month. But, it will apply to government hospitals, educational institutions, and other government offices.
Amid these developments, several opposition leaders have criticised the LDF-led Kerala government for burdening the public with these increases to fund government extravagance. Opposition parties, including the UDF and BJP, have already announced their boycott of the Keraleeyam 2023 celebrations, citing unnecessary expenses during the severe financial crisis.
In response to the increased electricity tariff, Kerala’s Minister of Electricity stated that the upward trend may continue in the coming years. According to the minister, these tariff increases are necessary for the sustainability of the board.
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