New Delhi : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has called for an all-party meeting today to discuss the issue of increased water bills in the capital. The meeting is scheduled to take place at 4 pm at the CM’s residence.
According to sources within the party, the Kejriwal government is proposing a one-time settlement scheme to address the issue of escalated water bills, which will be deliberated upon during the all-party meeting.
Previously, on June 14, 2023, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had announced the introduction of the ‘One Time Settlement Scheme’ aimed at resolving pending water bills for consumers in Delhi. With approximately 27.6 lakh consumers in Delhi, around 11.7 lakh consumers are burdened with outstanding dues totaling Rs 5,737 crore, as stated by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
Under the new scheme, set to be effective from August 1, the government plans to completely waive off pending water bills for 7 lakh consumers. This initiative is intended to offer significant relief to those facing challenges in meeting their financial obligations.
During a press conference, CM Kejriwal highlighted various factors contributing to the accumulation of unpaid bills, including challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and discrepancies in meter readings. Out of the total 27.6 lakh domestic water meters in the city, 11.7 lakh have arrears, necessitating the introduction of the one-time settlement scheme to expedite resolution.
The scheme categorizes bills based on the number of ‘okay readings’ recorded by meter readers. Consumers with two ‘okay readings’ will be treated differently from those with one or nil readings.
Kejriwal expressed confidence that the one-time settlement scheme would significantly benefit the majority of consumers, pending formal approvals.
He outlined the procedure for the new billing system, emphasizing a three-month grace period for consumers to settle their bills. Failure to adhere to the payment schedule would result in reverting to the previous billing policy.
Kejriwal also assured ongoing efforts to address issues related to incorrect meter readings and meter reader negligence, promising further policy updates in due course.
The proposed measures reflect the government’s commitment to resolving the pressing issue of escalated water bills and ensuring fair and transparent billing practices for consumers in Delhi.
