Karachi residents outraged as water bills increase by 23% amid economic strain

14% rise in water charges and 9% hike in sewerage charges will take effect from next month

KARACHI:

In a move that has sparked widespread concern and anger, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board approved a 23% hike in water and sewerage bills during a board meeting chaired by Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab on Tuesday.

The increase, which includes a 14% rise in water charges and a 9% hike in sewerage charges, will take effect from next month. The decision has caused uproar among Karachi's residents, who are already burdened by high utility costs, including electricity and gas bills.

"This sudden and substantial increase is nothing short of a water bomb on the people of Karachi," said one resident, expressing frustration over the deteriorating state of water and sewerage services in the city.

The hike has been met with strong opposition from Jamaat-e-Islami, whose leader in the Karachi City Council, Saifuddin Advocate, condemned the move. "The Karachi Water and Sewerage Board is a failing institution, unable to provide basic services to the citizens. This increase is unacceptable," he stated.

Saifuddin also accused the board of imposing the increase to repay a $1.6 billion loan taken from the World Bank. He vowed that Jamaat-e-Islami would not only raise its voice against the hike but also launch a vigorous protest campaign.

Critics argue that the decision comes at a time when Karachi's residents are already struggling under the weight of multiple taxes, with some even driven to desperation. The move, seen as unjust by many, has deepened the sense of frustration and anger in the city.