Karachi Raises Water and Sewerage Charges by 7.05% Amid Public Backlash Over Poor Supply
KARACHI: The Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) has announced a 7.05 percent increase in water and sewerage charges for residential and bulk consumers, triggering widespread criticism from citizens who say they continue to face severe water shortages despite paying higher utility bills.
The revised tariffs were officially notified through the Sindh Government Gazette on August 10, 2026, following approval by the KWSC Board of Directors. The increase is linked to the average Consumer Price Index (CPI) and applies to residential, commercial, and bulk consumers. Residential charges will continue to be calculated according to plot size, while fixed monthly rates have been revised for commercial establishments and shops.
This marks the second major tariff increase in two years, following an approximately 23 percent hike in September 2024, when sewerage charges were fixed at nine percent of water charges.
Residents across Karachi have strongly criticized the decision, arguing that many neighborhoods receive little or no piped water and remain dependent on expensive private water tankers. Citizens from Gulshan-i-Iqbal, Model Colony, Malir, and Saddar said they are being forced to pay higher bills despite inadequate or nonexistent water supply.
KWSC officials defended the increase, stating that the additional revenue is essential for strengthening the utility’s financial position, improving water supply operations, maintaining and rehabilitating the sewerage network, and enhancing civic services. According to the corporation, it collected Rs8.14 billion during the first four months of 2026, with average monthly revenue exceeding Rs2.26 billion.
However, concerns remain over the corporation’s performance. Official figures indicate that only 36 percent of customer complaints were resolved within the stipulated timeframe during FY2024-25. KWSC officials said the KWSC Act 2023authorizes annual tariff revisions in line with inflation and added that the increased revenue is also linked to commitments under the World Bank-funded Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project.