New tariff for water

The government is reviewing existing water charges, but a new tariff will not be implemented immediately as it is considering different tariffs for domestic and commercial uses.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Utilities and Energy, Dr Rashid Beebeejaun, made the comments at the inauguration of a new water supply source at Ruisseau Jamblon in Mare d’Australia yesterday.

He said that it is “crucial” to increase water charges mainly because the Central Water Authority is losing 50% of its water due to leaks in the distribution systems and the government will need huge funds to repair the network.

According to Dr Beebeejaun, the government will set up a scheme to provide support to vulnerable and poor families after the new charges are announced.

“Singapore has very good management of its water resources because only 5% of their water is lost through leaks. This costs a lot, which is why Singaporeans pay higher water tariffs.

“The water crises in Mauritius is not only because there is a lack of rainfall but also because we lose much water through the network.”