Hike in water tariff: Issue to come up for discussion today

The officials had initially proposed a hike of around 60 per cent in order to cover the losses that were being experienced in the generation and distribution of water. The councillors had however opposed this stating that the hike would be too high and would burden the residents. The agenda that was to come up for discussion last month was withdrawn at the last moment. It is learnt that the proposed hike now would be between 10 to 30 per cent.

The hike in water tariff is one of the reforms suggested under Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission. For getting regular grants for projects under the scheme the civic body would have to implement the hike.

The agenda for acquisition of land for the dumping ground would come up for discussion. Around 100 acres of land has been identified near Patiala ki Rao that would be acquired for using as a dumping ground. The Centre had asked all states to have dumping grounds keeping in view the need of the future. The issue of recruitment process for Junior Engineers is also likely to be taken up. During the meeting of the Finance and Contract Committee heated discussion had been witnessed on the issue.