Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (WASA) has stirred controversy with plans to raise water prices just one day after the local government minister Tajul Islam’s remarks on reconsidering water subsidies for the affluent in Dhaka. A recent report by Prothom Alo reveals the service provider’s intention to categorize water prices based on consumers’ income, potentially increasing costs by 24 to 147 percent across all customer segments.
Minister Tajul Islam highlighted that Dhaka WASA claims to spend Tk 26-30 for producing 1,000 liters of water, sold at Tk 15. However, discrepancies exist between Dhaka WASA’s figures and the actual production cost. While the purified water cost from surface sources is Tk 25, 70 percent of Dhaka WASA’s supply comes from less costly deep tube wells or underground sources.
Currently, residential consumers pay Tk 15.18 for 1,000 liters of water, regardless of income, while commercial customers pay Tk 42 for the same amount. Dhaka WASA’s proposed five-tier pricing system categorizes consumers into upper class, upper-middle class, middle class, lower-middle class, and lower-class segments based on their living spaces.
While the stratification aligns with income levels, concerns arise about water quality. Many areas report undrinkable water with issues of dirt and unpleasant odors. Dhaka WASA’s duty, therefore, should prioritize ensuring the supply of clean water before implementing price hikes.
Under Managing Director Taqsem A. Khan’s leadership, Dhaka WASA’s service quality deteriorated, contrasting with an increase in his salary and allowances. The government’s focus on the MD’s role appears to overlook the critical need for clean water for Dhaka residents. With complaints about water quality persisting, it’s imperative for Dhaka WASA to address issues of wastage and corruption without imposing an untimely water price increase.
Amidst rising prices of essential commodities and stagnant incomes for the public, any water price hike would be a severe blow. The plea is for the responsible minister to prioritize measures against wastage and corruption within WASA, ensuring Dhaka residents access clean water without the burden of increased costs.
