Stop the misconduct of Dhaka WASA meter readers

Dhaka WASA has increased water prices at least 14 times in 13 years. However, despite this, the quality of water supply has not improved; instead, various types of irregularities and corruption have increased. The corruption discussed is referred to as the "meter fraud trap." Corruption related to meters is becoming an unfortunate trend in Bangladesh. Electricity meters were previously associated with fraud, with even ordinary meter readers found to own millions of taka. Now, a similar trend is observed in the water meters of WASA, which is unexpected for the country.

According to a report published in a national daily on January 19, commercial buildings are being converted into residential buildings by dishonest meter readers in WASA. Ground information from the report reveals that a 10-storey building, which houses shops, offices, and business establishments, receives a water bill for a residential building at the end of the month. Bills amounting to lakhs of taka are being managed for just two to four thousand taka. Additionally, there are complaints that some individuals keep their meters open to reduce their water bills. Some individuals even resort to deceptive practices to conceal information regarding deep tube wells. The meter readers themselves are adept at such deceitful tactics in using WASA water. These unscrupulous billing assistants of WASA are exploiting the system by engaging in various scandals related to water bills, thereby enriching themselves at the expense of others.

According to Dhaka WASA's regulations, the water bill for a building from the beginning to the end of its construction should be charged at the commercial rate. However, it has been observed that bills are disappearing, and information is being kept secret. Through investigation, sensational information is being uncovered regarding the source of water used for the building's construction and how it lasted for so long without being billed properly. Allegations suggest that this practice is carried out in collusion with the building owner and water meter reader. Consequently, the government is losing a significant amount of revenue.
In order to curb these manipulations, there are instructions to change the area of meter readers every three months, but many have been stuck for years. As a result, water bill irregularities are running rampant. On the one hand, unlimited bills are being stolen by meter readers, on the other hand, there is a water crisis in many areas of the capital.

Since the beginning of fasting, the heat has started increasing. At this time, there is a shortage of water supplied by Dhaka Wasa in some areas of the capital. Among them, problems are more in Malibagh, Gulbagh, Sheorapara, Lalbagh, Rayerbagh and Dakshinkhan areas. As a result, the residents of these areas are suffering from water shortage during the month of Ramadan. However, WASA authorities say that there is no shortage of water supply overall, there are some area-based problems. As a result, the statements of Dhaka Wasa and the victims have been reversed.

Goal 6 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals emphasises the importance of providing universal access to clean water and sanitation for all by 2030. Bangladesh has committed to achieving this goal, highlighting the critical nature of water supply services. Efforts must be made to ensure that these services remain uninterrupted for any reason.

Many of the challenges in water management stem from longstanding weaknesses in the system, which have persisted over the years. Just as issues exist with Wasa's water monitoring system, homeowners also bear some responsibility. Therefore, it is imperative to adopt successful foreign models for water monitoring systems in water supply management. The government should prioritise the implementation of an effective monitoring system to address these challenges and ensure the efficient delivery of clean water to all citizens.

In such circumstances, we assert that "Life is synonymous with water" to halt this perilous manipulation of such a vital resource. Meter corruption not only results in revenue loss for the state but also inflicts suffering on people's lives. Hence, we anticipate that WASA will actively address complaints of irregularities and fulfill its duty in ensuring consistent and reliable water supply to the public.