Bengaluru 18 Feb

Bengaluru residents may soon face a 30 per cent increase in water tariffs, with the state cabinet expected to discuss and finalise the proposal at its meeting on Thursday. According to sources, the hike, which was proposed by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) months ago, is now under serious consideration and could receive government approval ahead of the budget session.  

The BWSSB had earlier recommended the tariff revision, citing rising operational costs. The proposal was deliberated in official meetings, and with the cabinet set to review it this week, a final decision is imminent.  

However, amid growing public anger over recent hikes in bus and Metro fares, the government may tread cautiously. With citizens already voicing strong opposition to the increased transportation costs, there is speculation that the administration might delay or reconsider the water tariff hike to avoid further backlash.  

Officials indicate that the government could adopt a ‘wait and watch’ approach before implementing the revision. The final decision is expected after Thursday’s cabinet meeting.