Colombo (LNW): Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development Jeevan Thondaman has provided insight into the ongoing discussions regarding the establishment of a water tariff.
Speaking to a briefing at the President’s Media Centre (PMC) he emphasised that devising a formula that ensures the sustainability of the water board while also maintaining fairness for the general public would be of importance.
The government’s focus is on prioritising the major domestic category, which constitutes 75 per cent, and Samurdhi at 1.58 per cent, over industries, without exerting undue pressure on them.
Thondaman further noted that discussions are currently underway, exploring two parallel formulas—one centered on cost recovery and the other on cost reflection.
The final draft of the tariff formula is expected in December, with a commitment to avoiding unnecessary burden on the public. There is a possibility of an increased tariff rate for commercial institutions, with an emphasis on ensuring fair rates for charitable institutions, hospitals and schools.
To further deliberate on these crucial decisions, a meeting has been requested with Ministers Dilum Amunugama and Shehan Serasinghe. The outcome of these discussions will be communicated, leading to a vote on the proposed tariff.
Thondaman acknowledged the economic crisis affecting both foreign-funded and domestic-funded projects. He assured the public that new projects would kick-start in January, with a focus on completing existing projects. The government plans to engage in public-private partnerships to enhance water quality and reduce costs. The Minister clarified that while projects would involve private participation, there is no intention to sell or privatise water.
The Minister acknowledged operational losses, citing increased electricity prices and existing debt as contributing factors. However, he highlighted a silver lining—the reduction in water usage due to conservation efforts following a tariff hike. The Minister stressed the importance of a sustainable tariff formula that considers debt servicing and CAPEX (Capital Expenditure) but does not overburden the public.
Minister Thondaman discussed the government’s commitment to efficient water conservation, especially in areas with inadequate access to clean water. Plans for a desalination plant in Jaffna and efforts to prioritize water supply from villages and estates were highlighted. The Minister also emphasised the streamlining of the water resources management policy to implement a comprehensive water management plan.
The Minister refuted accusations of politicisation within the Water Board and clarified the appointment process for key positions. He assured that revenue for the Board has increased and discussed plans to explore renewable energy sources to reduce energy costs.
As the government works towards a stable tariff formula and sustainable water management, the Minister urged the public to understand the value of water and the necessity for a balanced approach to tariff reform.
The Minister concluded the press conference by reiterating the commitment to providing clean and accessible water to all citizens while ensuring financial viability in the water sector. The proposed reforms aim to strike a balance between the needs of the public and the economic realities faced by the water sector.
