The Times of India  18.08.2010

BWSSB can now collect funds for projects

BANGALORE: BWSSB is now empowered to collect money from people to implement infrastructure projects. The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage (Amendment) Bill, 2010, which allows BWSSB to collect money from residents for infrastructure projects, got the governor's assent. It was notified in the gazette on July 27, 2010.

"Earlier, we did not have the power to collect money from people. But this amendment empowers the water board to do so. First, we are planning to implement this model in 110 villages. BWSSB has proposed a water supply and sewerage project for 110 villages, at a cost of Rs 2,400 crore," he said.

The chairman said the project proposal would be placed before the cabinet for approval. The funding pattern involves 7.5% from the government, 7.5% from the water board and the remaining 85% would be taken as loan from the Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA). "The beneficiary capital contribution collected would be used to repay the loan," he said.