The Karnataka government has announced a one-time settlement (OTS) scheme to help thousands of residents in Bengaluru clear pending water bills. The initiative, introduced through the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board, aims to reduce financial burden on consumers while improving revenue collection.
Under the scheme, defaulters can pay only the principal amount of their dues, with interest charges being waived if payments are made within a three-month window from April to June 2026. Officials revealed that over 5 lakh connections in the city currently have outstanding dues totaling more than ₹850 crore.
The scheme applies to domestic, commercial, and industrial users, making it one of the largest relief measures in recent years. Authorities hope that the move will encourage more residents to clear their dues and regularize their accounts.
Payments can be made through multiple channels, including online portals, kiosks, and authorized centers. The government plans to notify defaulters individually, ensuring wider participation in the scheme.
Officials also noted that rising demand for water supply, particularly from the Cauvery river system, has increased operational costs. Improving revenue collection is therefore critical for maintaining infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted supply.
Experts believe the scheme strikes a balance between consumer relief and institutional sustainability. However, they emphasize that long-term solutions will require better billing systems and stricter enforcement.
As Bengaluru continues to grow rapidly, such initiatives are seen as essential to managing urban resources efficiently and supporting the city’s expanding population.
News as reported
