Water tariffs will not see an immediate increase despite the recent electricity price hikes, according to National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) Chairman Nishantha Ranatunga.

He confirmed that the revision of water tariffs was not presently under discussion, but hinted at potential adjustments in the future and stated that the price revision formula was in the process of being finalised.

A senior official at the NWSDB, who wished to remain anonymous, also said that a proposed formula for tariff increments was under careful consideration.

“The mechanism for the increments is still being sorted out. We aim to adhere to an annual revision of water tariffs. However, the possibility of a significant increase or decrease in electricity rates may necessitate more frequent revisions. The new formula will be a crucial determinant in striking the right balance,” the official explained.

The water tariffs were last revised in August, with a noticeable increase in the domestic water tariff from Rs. 20 per unit for the initial five units to Rs. 60 per unit.

Prior to this, a tariff adjustment was implemented on 1 September 2022, marking the first revision in nearly a decade since the adjustments in 2012.