Water bills waived for widows, disabled

The Jal Shakti Department has introduced a significant relief for domestic water consumers, particularly those in need. Starting this month, widows, destitute women and disabled individuals will no longer have to pay water bills, as their household water supply charges have been waived. Additionally, consumers with an annual income of less than Rs 50,000 will receive a 50% concession on their monthly water bills, reducing their payable amount to just Rs 50.

This initiative comes as part of the department’s revised water billing system, which began in October, under which regular domestic consumers are charged a nominal fee of Rs 100 per month. The department has also started integrating an online billing system, enabling consumers to pay water bills digitally, similar to electricity bills.

Superintendent Engineer of Jal Shakti Department, Sirmaur, Rajeev Mahajan, confirmed the implementation of these measures through a formal notification. “Eligible consumers, including widows, destitute women, and disabled individuals, can now apply for exemptions. Furthermore, those with annual incomes below Rs. 50,000 are required to submit income certificates to avail of the 50% subsidy on their bills,” he said.

The department has set a target to collect water bills for three months from all domestic consumers by December 31. To streamline the process, mobile numbers of consumers are being linked to the department’s online portal, ensuring smooth digital transactions. Once this linkage is complete, consumers will have the flexibility to pay their bills both online and offline.

The initiative is expected to provide significant financial relief to economically weaker sections while also encouraging digital adoption for bill payments. With a focus on inclusivity and convenience, the Jal Shakti Department aims to bring all domestic consumers under its updated system by the end of the year.