Date:05/07/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/07/05/stories/2009070559700300.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Scrapping Rs. 125 water cess hailed

Staff Reporter

HYDERABAD: Welcoming the Chief Minister’s order to the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) against the collection of Rs.125 per flat per month in residential complexes towards water charges in the GHMC limits, the Federation of Associations of Colonies and Apartments (FACA) hoped that it wasn’t a political gimmick before the GHMC polls.

In a press note on Saturday, FACA expressed its displeasure over the constant threat by the Water Board officials to disconnect water connections. They also alleged that in the recent times, the water works officials were demanding payment of Rs.125 even from those users who were being billed for their water usage.

FACA members also pointed out to the increase in water charges over the past two years as not appropriate and demanded a reduction in charges. The members also demanded a GO to solve this problem permanently.