THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The opposition has alleged in the assembly that the water tariff was raised for ADB (Asian Development Bank).

Congress MLA M Vincent who presented the emergency resolution notice, alleged that the water tariff was increased to reduce the free water supply from 35% to 20% and also to increase the income for the contract with ADB. Minister Roshy Augustine said that the increase in water tariff was to cover the loss of the water authority and had nothing to do with ADB. The opposition walked out of the assembly protesting the increase in water tariff.

The minister said that the cumulative loss of the water authority is Rs 4911.42 crore and has a liability of Rs 2,567 crore. “Rs 1263 crore is to be given to KSEB. Rs 400 crore extra will be received through rate hike. It costs Rs 22.85 to supply one KL of water and receives only Rs 10.92. A loss of Rs 11.93. We cannot continue with losses.”, he added. The minister also said that society should be taught to reduce water usage.

In his walkout speech, opposition leader VD Satheesan said that the water tariff was increased according to the central government's loan condition that the water tariff should be increased by five percent every year and after five years there would be a profit of Rs 500 crore. “As the number of connections increases, the profit will increase to Rs 1000 crores in five years. Failure to collect dues is put as a burden on common people. Bill is paid even where water is not available. The government's behaviour towards the people is as if they are enemies.”, said Satheesan.

M Vincent MLA said the government does not have the mercy that even an executioner has.