Team Herald
PONDA: Domestic water consumers from Bandora and Kavlem were shocked after receiving exorbitant bills after a delay of five months. A water consumer from Kavlem showed his bill and said that those receiving a monthly bill of Rs 100 expected a bill of Rs 500 after five months but instead received a bill of Rs 900 for the above period.
Several consumers complained that meter rent and inspection charges are exorbitant than the water charges. Some locals complained of receiving the bill with Rs 100 as inspection charge.
Marcaim MLA Sudin Dhavalikar said the government instead of providing regular water supply to the people is charging exorbitant bills which the common man cannot afford.
He said, “It appears that even Chief Minister and PWD Minister have no control over functioning of PWD. In this COVID pandemic the government should not burden the people but, instead should provide relief to them.
He said some villagers came to him early morning complaining about the exorbitant bills. Sudin said a senior citizen, who has no source of income, came to him with the exorbitant bill of Rs 454. The bill mentioned he used 40 cubic metres in 80 days. The water charges are shown at Rs 154 and it is strange that the bill mentions meter charges as Rs 200 and the inspection charge as Rs 100.
Sudin demanded the government immediately rectify the bills and till rectified, people should not pay the bills.
He also demanded the government come out with OTS for delayed bills.
