Hubballi-Dharwad Pushes for Water Bill Interest Waiver Inspired by Bengaluru's OTS
In the wake of the Bengaluru Water Board's announcement of a 100% waiver on interest and penalties under a one-time settlement (OTS) scheme, a similar demand has gained momentum in the twin cities of Hubballi-Dharwad. This call for relief comes as the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) grapples with a staggering backlog of unpaid water bills, sparking a debate among residents, activists, and officials.
Mounting Dues and the Push for OTS
Currently, HDMC faces pending dues from approximately 1.8 lakh tap connections, amounting to a colossal Rs 324.8 crore. This total includes a substantial Rs 128.9 crore in accrued interest, highlighting the financial burden on defaulters. Corporators and many defaulters are now urging the government to introduce an OTS scheme, similar to Bengaluru's, which could enable HDMC to recover at least the principal amount of Rs 195.9 crore. Proponents argue that this recovery is crucial for funding essential infrastructure projects, such as expanding the 24x7 drinking water supply scheme, which has been progressing slowly.
Concerns Over Fairness and Implementation
However, the proposal has not been without controversy. Some citizens have expressed concerns that waiving interest might discourage prompt bill payers and potentially lead to an increase in pending bills in the future. Dr MC Sindhur, a civic rights activist and medical practitioner, emphasized the need for careful implementation. "There is nothing wrong in waiving interest for defaulters, who are often from the poor and lower middle class," he noted. "But guidelines must ensure only genuine defaulters benefit, excluding those who can afford to pay under the 24x7 scheme. Recovering the principal Rs 195.9 crore is better than letting Rs 324.8 crore linger, as it can boost water supply expansion."
Voices from the Community and Administration
Jagadish Unakal, a school van driver and social activist, echoed these sentiments, pointing out that increasing interest rates are ineffective against poor defaulters. "The administration's failure in recovery is the first mistake, followed by defaulters' non-payment. HDMC should prioritize paying contractors by collecting the principal dues," he added. On the political front, Iresh Anchatageri, BJP House leader in HDMC, revealed plans to table a proposal in the general body meeting to form a delegation led by Union minister Pralhad Joshi to meet the chief minister. "Past proposals sent after resolutions went unanswered by the government," he stated.
Government Response and Future Steps
Mayor Jyoti Patil mentioned hearing about the government's decision to implement OTS in all cities but noted a lack of official communication. "We await clarity from the government. If OTS is not extended to other cities, we will consider alternative actions," she asserted. This uncertainty leaves the future of the waiver demand in limbo, as stakeholders weigh the potential benefits against the risks of setting a precedent that might undermine timely payments.
