Stakeholders Express Doubts Regarding 50% Non-Revenue Water Claim
Recent reports have shed light on the water demand forecast for the future in the regions under the Kochi Corporation, five adjacent municipalities, and 13 panchayats. As per official sources, by 2050, the total water demand is projected to reach 600 MLD, with 300 MLD allocated solely for the Kochi Corporation areas. This leaves a shortfall of 190 MLD, prompting discussions about the need for a new plant to bridge this gap.
According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the non-revenue water percentage in Kochi currently stands at a significant 51%, which includes water consumption from public taps. Of this percentage, around 12% is attributed to public tap usage alone. Stakeholders, however, question the accuracy of this claim, suggesting that the actual non-revenue water quantity may be closer to 39%.
Expressing skepticism towards the purported 50% non-revenue water figure, Mohammed Shiyas, the Ernakulam District Congress Committee (DCC) president, raised concerns about the potential repercussions of implementing the ADB-funded project in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode. Shiyas highlighted the possibility of the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) assets, valued at over ₹3,000 crore, being transferred to external entities under this initiative.
Moreover, the maintenance expenses, estimated at ₹1,000 crore annually, could pose additional financial burdens without any new investments. In light of these challenges, Shiyas emphasized the urgent need for the government to proceed with the 190-MLD project, which was approved during Oommen Chandy’s tenure as Chief Minister.
Concerns Over Water Sourcing and Tariff Implications
In addition to the infrastructure implications, stakeholders are apprehensive about potential water sourcing strategies, particularly concerning the KINFRA Park’s water requirements. Suggestions have been made to divert an estimated 49 MLD of water from the Kadambrayar, rather than relying on the Periyar as the primary source. This shift aims to mitigate environmental concerns and ensure sustainable water management practices.
Amidst these discussions, concerns have also been raised regarding the possible escalation of water tariffs following the implementation of the ADB-funded project. Mohammed Shiyas emphasized the need to safeguard public interests and ensure that tariff concessions for vulnerable segments of society are upheld, notwithstanding any infrastructural developments.
Employee Unions Voice Dissent and Demands
P. Unnikrishnan, the general secretary of the KWA Employees Union (CITU), expressed reservations about the prevailing financial constraints within the KWA. Employee unions have underscored the financial shortfall faced by the KWA and emphasized the government’s responsibility to repay the ADB loan, urging continued support for tariff concessions benefiting marginalized communities.
Furthermore, Unnikrishnan contested the claims regarding non-revenue water exceeding 50%, labeling them as exaggerated. He highlighted discrepancies in the detailed project report concerning water quality issues attributed to the KWA, emphasizing the need for transparent and accurate reporting. The looming threat of potential employee agitation underscores the urgency of addressing these concerns and ensuring a sustainable water management framework.
As stakeholders navigate the complexities surrounding water management and infrastructure development, it is imperative to prioritize transparency, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable practices to address the evolving water demands effectively. The future of water resource management in Kochi hinges on collaborative efforts and informed decision-making to ensure equitable access and environmental preservation.
