BWSSB plans one-time settlement scheme to recover ₹701 crore arrears

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has proposed a one-time settlement (OTS) scheme aimed at recovering ₹701.72 crore in outstanding dues from water consumers across Bengaluru. The initiative seeks to ease the board’s financial burden by offering a waiver on penalties and interest, allowing consumers to pay only the principal amount.

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As per BWSSB records, a total of 4.90 lakh consumers, including domestic households, government bodies, industrial units, and statutory institutions, are eligible for the scheme. Notably, domestic users account for the highest pending dues, amounting to ₹185.48 crore, excluding interest and penalties.

Arrears from various government entities also contribute significantly. The Karnataka government owes ₹56.04 crore, the Central government ₹22.92 crore, while the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has dues of ₹7.63 crore. Non-domestic users, including commercial establishments, owe ₹78.35 crore.

The current total arrears stand at ₹701.72 crore, of which ₹439.03 crore is the principal amount and ₹262.68 crore comprises penalties and interest. The proposed OTS scheme is expected to enhance BWSSB’s revenue stream and support its financial sustainability.

The proposal has been submitted to the state government for approval. If cleared by the Finance Department, the board expects to recover a substantial portion of the outstanding dues in the coming months. The announcement also comes amid indications of a possible marginal water tariff hike in the city.