Delhi's New Water Bill Mandate: Ensuring Accountability at Property Registrations

Delhi residents will soon need to present a water bill for property registration. This initiative by the Delhi Jal Board aims to curb illegal connections and boost revenue. With significant differences between water and electricity connections, the policy seeks to formalize and improve water and wastewater management in the capital.

In an effort to combat illegal water connections and increase revenue, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is set to introduce a requirement for residents to present a water bill during property registration. This move, recently approved by the DJB, aims to streamline water usage and connect more citizens to the official network.

Currently, there is a stark contrast between the number of water and electricity connections in the city, suggesting many households are utilizing water services unofficially. The implementation of this measure, discussed in a board meeting chaired by Water Minister Parvesh Verma, seeks to bridge this gap while addressing critical environmental and financial challenges.

Officials emphasize that formalizing water connections will not only address non-revenue water issues but also support broader efforts to clean the Yamuna river. By requiring water bills at property transactions, the DJB hopes to encourage legal adjustments among residents, particularly in unauthorized colonies, contributing to better water management and reduced illegal usage.

(With inputs from agencies.)