by Namini Wijedasa
A staggering Rs 1.15 billion electricity bill, constant wastage and rising maintenance costs have forced officials at National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) to press the government for a hike in water tariffs.

The government, however, is still considering the matter in the context of a general rise in all commodities which has caused public ire.

NWSDB sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, said it was "difficult to convince ministers" about the necessity of raising tariffs.

"We need to review prices from time to time," said Col. Ranjith Wijesundara, NWSDB chairman. "Our electricity bill for the last financial year, alone, has cost us Rs 1.15 billion."

Wijesundara pointed out that the board has also to pay salaries and meet other benefits of more than 8,600 employees.

"As an organisation which is self-sustaining, we have to seriously look into the possibility of raising water tariffs," Wijesundara said. "It is difficult to continue like this."

The chairman denied reports that the decision to increase water prices has already been made and that the revision would take effect from April 1.

Contacted for comment, Minister of Urban Development Armugam Thondaman confirmed that a final decision was yet to be made.