Dharan water tariff hike withdrawn

By Nisha Rai,Dharan, Aug. 13: Dharan Drinking Water Board has reversed its recently imposed water tariff hike following widespread protests from locals and political parties. 

The board has rolled back the tariff increase, which had come into effect on July 16 2024. The decision sparked a strong backlash, leading demonstrations since July 26.

Mayor of Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City Harka Raj Rai convened a meeting with representatives from 10 political parties, which were leading the protests. 

After marathon meetings on Sunday night, an agreement was reached around 9:00 pm to revert the water tariff to its previous rate.

The negotiations resulted in a three-point agreement. 

First, it was decided that the old water tariff would remain in place until a formal response was received from the Drinking Water and Service Tariff Determination Commission. 

Secondly, the demand to give a complete shape to the water management board is currently under review in the High Court, further action will be taken as per the court order.

Lastly, the board has been instructed to publish its income and expenditure statements for the fiscal years 2022/23 and 2023/24 within seven days.

Following the agreement, the political parties have suspended their protests. 

Mayor Rai explained that the initial tariff increase was necessary due to financial obligations, but he acknowledged the public outcry and assured that the commission would address the concerns raised.

The meeting was attended by representatives of 10 political parties, including Mayor Rai, Deputy Mayor Aindra Bikram Begha, Nepali Congress Dharan President Shyam Pokharel, UML Dharan Chairman Harka Jung Aveng, CPN (Maoist Centre) in-charge Chotlung, Janata Samajwadi Party-Nepal vice-chairman of Dharan Suman Chemjong and CPN (Unified Socialist) Dharan Chairman Rewatiraman Rai among others.