The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has introduced a one-time settlement (OTS) scheme to help residents clear long-pending water bills. The initiative aims to address a massive backlog of unpaid dues across the city.
According to officials, Bengaluru has around 11 lakh water connections, of which over 5 lakh have outstanding payments. The total pending amount is estimated at ₹851 crore, including both principal and interest. Under the new scheme, consumers will get relief through partial or full waiver of interest, making it easier to settle their dues.
The scheme will be available for a limited period from April to June 2026. Detailed notices are being sent to consumers along with their monthly water bills, outlining the amount payable, eligible concessions, and payment options.
Authorities hope that the initiative will encourage defaulters to clear their dues, improving the financial health of the water board. This, in turn, will help fund infrastructure upgrades and ensure better water supply services across Bengaluru.
However, some experts caution that while such schemes provide short-term relief, long-term solutions require better billing systems, stricter enforcement, and increased public awareness about timely payments.
For residents, the scheme offers an opportunity to regularize their accounts at reduced cost, while for the city, it represents a step toward more sustainable urban service management.
News as reported
