Kolhapur: Leader of the Congress in the Legislative Council, MLC Satej Patil, has submitted a written request to the chairperson of the Maharashtra Water Resources Regulatory Authority, demanding a 15-day extension for the hearing on the proposed water tariff draft.
MLC Patil, in his letter, said, “After he participated in the online hearing concerning the revised draft of proposed water tariffs, he felt that the process lacked broad participation. During this meeting, discussions were held regarding punitive actions, increased water rates, mandatory installation of water meters, and proposed changes to water usage regulations. Since the proposed decisions will have a direct impact on millions of farmers and water users, it is essential to take all concerned stakeholders, like the farming community, cooperative water supply societies, gram panchayats, municipal councils, municipal corporations, and various industrial associations into confidence.”
Through the written statement, MLC Patil demanded that an extension of at least 15 days be granted to the hearing process regarding the revised draft of the proposed water tariff, and that information concerning the rate hike be disseminated to all concerned stakeholders to solicit their opinions and objections.
Speaking regarding this, MLC Satej Patil said, “Comprehensive discussions are required on key issues such as retaining water permits based on specific cropping patterns; levying charges based on actual crop existence; revoking increased punitive charges; announcing fixed schedules for canal water rotations; granting concessional rates to cooperative lift irrigation societies; avoiding the imposition of mandatory water meters; and revoking the punitive charges currently proposed for the failure to install meters. Furthermore, it is a crucial point that cooperative water supply societies are independent entities registered under the department of cooperation, and therefore, they should not be merged with Water Users’ Associations.”
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Water Resources Regulatory Authority has extended the deadline of May 31, 2026, by 5 days till 5 pm on June 5, 2026, to submit their views/opinions through a Google form link, as well as through email.
This development highlights the ongoing concerns over water tariff revisions in Maharashtra, with Patil emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue. The demand for a 15-day extension aims to ensure that all affected parties, particularly farmers and local bodies, have adequate time to respond. The authority’s decision to grant a shorter extension may not fully address these concerns, potentially leading to further appeals.
