The government will review whether a revision to water tariffs is necessary on June 30, the Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply, Susil Ranasinghe has announced.

Speaking to media after a ceremony to present appointment letters to newly recruited Management Assistant officers of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Minister Ranasinghe said that no decision has yet been made regarding a tariff increase.

A Cabinet decision issued on May 19 confirmed that water tariffs would remain unchanged during the first six months of the year.

Authorities noted at the time that current tariff rates were sufficient to cover the full operational costs of the water supply sector.

Addressing concerns about a possible increase, Minister Ranasinghe acknowledged that the recent rise in electricity tariffs could have some impact on water supply costs. However, he emphasized that the effect on water bills would be minimal.

“The next review is scheduled for June 30. By then, we will assess all expenses incurred between January and June for water treatment and the operations of the Water Supply Board. While the recent electricity tariff increase will have some effect, its impact on water bills is expected to be very small,” he said.

The Minister added that the final decision following the June 30 review would determine whether any adjustment to water tariffs is required.

“I believe there will be no need to increase water tariffs,” he stated.