By The Pulseline News Desk
Water consumers will not face an increase in tariffs during 2026, with the Government opting to maintain current charges until the next scheduled review in January 2027.
Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Susil Ranasinghe has said a comprehensive review of water tariffs is scheduled for January next year, following which the Government will decide whether tariffs should be increased, reduced or maintained.
The Minister made the remarks following a discussion at the Kandy District Secretariat, where drinking water-related issues affecting communities in the district were reviewed.
While assuring consumers that there would be no tariff increase this year, Ranasinghe has said the Government’s immediate focus was on addressing water supply problems and improving infrastructure rather than placing an additional financial burden on consumers.
Kandy has been identified as an area requiring continued investment in water supply infrastructure, with approximately Rs. 2 billion allocated to the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) this year for projects in the district.
The allocation will support the laying of new pipelines, repairs to existing water supply networks and improvements to water purification centres.
According to the Minister, several projects have already commenced in response to drinking water shortages and other supply-related concerns reported by residents.
However, some projects have been temporarily suspended, while new proposals have also been submitted. The National Water Supply and Drainage Board is currently reviewing these projects with the objective of identifying urgent interventions and accelerating work where necessary.
The Government’s approach comes as concerns over the reliability of water sources and distribution networks remain in several parts of the country, particularly amid changing weather patterns.
Ranasinghe has said the El Niño weather condition has not so far had an impact on water sources managed by the NWSDB or the Department of Community Planning.
Nevertheless, authorities are preparing contingency measures in anticipation of possible future effects.
The Minister has said the Government was closely monitoring the situation and would take necessary action should water sources come under pressure due to adverse weather conditions.
The assurance on tariffs provides some relief to households at a time when the cost of living remains a key concern, while the planned January 2027 review could reopen the debate over the financial sustainability of water services.
For now, however, the Government has indicated that consumers will not have to pay more for water in 2026, as it focuses on upgrading infrastructure and resolving persistent supply issues.
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