Pune: Starting July 1, Maharashtra has implemented a 10 per cent hike in domestic and industrial water tariffs. For domestic use, the increase ranges from 0.06 to 0.12 paise per 1,000 liters, for industrial process industries from ₹1.21 to ₹2.42, and for raw material processing industries from ₹18.15 to ₹36.3. However, the increase in irrigation water tariffs has been postponed in light of the upcoming assembly elections.
The Water Resources Department had decided to increase water tariffs across the state back in 2022, with a 10 per cent hike planned for the 2024-25 fiscal year. Consequently, the revised rates are now in effect as of July 1, 2024.
The Maharashtra Water Resources Regulatory Authority (MWRRA) sets the water usage rates for all reservoirs in the state. In February 2022, the authority proposed new rates for domestic and industrial water usage, which were finalized in April after considering public feedback. The rates include a proposed 10 per cent increase for both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 fiscal years.
Municipalities that exceed their approved water usage by 100-125 per cent will face a 1.5x rate, and those exceeding by more than 125 per cent will face a 3x rate. Local authorities must treat sewage according to Maharashtra Pollution Control Board standards before releasing it into natural water bodies or canals. Failure to establish or fully operate sewage treatment plants will result in double charges based on either the approved quota or actual water usage, whichever is higher.
Revised Water Rates (per 1000 liters):
Domestic (direct from reservoir): Increased from 0.60 paise to 0.66 paise
Domestic (from canal): Increased from ₹1.21 to ₹1.33
Industrial process industries (direct from reservoir): Increased from ₹12.10 to ₹13.31
Industrial process industries (from canal): Increased from ₹24.20 to ₹26.62
Raw material processing industries (direct from reservoir): Increased from ₹181.50 to ₹199.65
Raw material processing industries (from canal): Increased from ₹363 to ₹399.30
Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department, Pune Division, H. V. Gunale, confirmed the 10 per cent hike in domestic and industrial water tariffs while stating that the increase in agricultural water tariffs has been deferred by the state government.
