PARLIAMENT

The officials of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board suggested the need to revise the water tariff in a cost-effective manner to the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Water Supply.

The officials of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board pointed out that a liter of water is still given to consumers for about 2 cents and although it has recently been increased to 5 cents, the cost of processing a liter of water is about 12 to 14 cents. Because of this, the officials pointed out that the water charges should be revised in a way that suits the cost.

This was discussed at the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Water Supply which met recently (Nov. 17) under the Chairmanship of Hon. Keheliya Rambukwella, Minister of Water Supply.

The officials further mentioned that despite the recent increase in water charges, the cost of water supply has increased by 50% compared to the previous amount. Therefore, the officials pointed out that the current water tariff is not sufficient compared to the cost. In view of the current economic crisis, it is difficult to allocate money for water projects, and if any money is saved by revising the water charges, that amount can be allocated for water projects the officials present said.

The Minister mentioned that attention will be paid towards the revision of water charges for parties other than low-income earners, Samurdhi beneficiaries and the elderly.

Furthermore, there was a discussion about levying tax on drinking water bottles to the government and the current progress of water projects in different parts of the island.

Minister Hon. (Dr.) Ramesh Pathirana, State Ministers Hon. Sanath Nishantha, Hon. Anuradha Jayaratne, Hon. Kanaka Herath, Hon. Geetha Kumarasinghe, Members of Parliament Hon. Kapila Athukorala, Hon. U. K. Sumith Udukumbura, Hon. S. Jagath Samarawickramawas, Hon. Sanjeeva Edirimanna, Hon. Gunathilaka Rajapaksha, Hon. Upul Mahendra Rajapaksha, Hon. Madhura Withanage, Hon. Sudath Manjula, Hon. Chandima Weerakkody, Hon. Charles Nirmalanathan, Hon. M. S. Thowfeek, Hon. Sampath Athukorala, Hon. Weerasumana Weerasinghe, Hon. Waruna Liyanage, Hon. (Major) Sudarshana Denipitiya were present  at the Committee meeting held.