The Ministry of Urban Development and Housing has directed the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) to establish a mechanism for collecting outstanding payments for water bills as soon as possible.

This is in the wake of recent reports indicating that consumers have failed to pay arrears amounting to nearly Rs. 14.5 billion to the NWSDB.

In light of this situation, the Deputy Minister of Urban Development and Housing, T.B. Sarath told The Daily Morning yesterday (10) that the ministry has instructed the NWSDB to develop a suitable mechanism for collecting these arrears. He also mentioned that the ministry would take further actions based on the NWSDB's proposals. "We are also looking into the reasons behind the people's inability to pay their bills, and a decision will be made in a way that is fair to everyone," he added.

According to media reports quoting a spokesperson from the NWSDB, consumers have already been informed to settle their outstanding payments. The spokesperson further noted that the water supply of many consumers who have defaulted on their payments has been disconnected.

Several attempts made to contact the Chairperson and the General Manager of the NWSDB proved futile.