Kullu’s water logic: Affordability at core of revised tariff

In response to growing concerns over rising water bills, Kullu Jal Shakti Superintending Engineer Vinod Kumar clarified the logic behind the newly revised urban water tariff structure, emphasising that the model is both research-based and subsidy-supported to ensure affordability for most households.

Speaking to the media, Kumar explained that the department follows a national standard of supplying 135 litres of water per person per day — a benchmark set by the Government of India based on climate patterns and consumption trends. At this rate, a family of five typically consumes around 20 kilolitres (kL) of water per month. Under the current tariff, such a family pays just Rs 100 per person per month, amounting to Rs 501.80 including sewerage charges — far below the department’s actual production cost of Rs 100 per kilolitre.

“The goal,” Kumar said, “is to keep water affordable, even while recovering part of our operational expenses. The slab system offers incentives for conservation, while shielding low-use households from steep rates.”

The revised tariff is applicable in four urban sectors — Kullu, Manali, Bhunter and Banjar — covering around 6,000 domestic water connections. The data suggests that the structure remains reasonable for the majority: 62 per cent of households in Manali and 74 per cent in Kullu have received monthly bills below Rs 1,000.

However, the new slabs have drawn criticism from residents — especially those in joint families or homes with multiple tenants sharing a single water meter, who claim their bills have risen sharply. Addressing this, Kullu MLA Sunder Singh Thakur has written to the Chief Minister, urging a reconsideration of the slab system to accommodate such households more fairly.

In the wake of the September tariff notification, the department has taken steps to ease public confusion. A help desk near the hospital and a complaint room have been set up, where residents can inspect water meters and register grievances. While rural consumers are also facing a slight rate hike, their revised bills are yet to be issued.

To support vulnerable groups, the government continues to offer free water to widows, orphans and persons with disabilities, provided they furnish the necessary certificates. Households with annual incomes under Rs 50,000 are eligible for a 50 per cent rebate.

Kumar also urged citizens to adopt water-saving habits, such as reducing the use of washing machines and dishwashers, using flush toilets judiciously and avoiding the use of potable water for gardening, in order to stay within the subsidised slab limits.

Himachal Tribune