Bengaluru: The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board has announced a One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme aimed at helping lakhs of consumers clear long-pending water bill dues by offering relief on accumulated penalties and interest.
The scheme, which will be in effect from April to June 2026, allows defaulters to settle their dues by paying the principal amount, with a full or substantial waiver on interest and penalties. Officials described it as a limited-time opportunity to regularize accounts and avoid further financial burden.
According to BWSSB data, Bengaluru has around 11 lakh water connections, of which nearly 5.1 lakh consumers have pending dues. The total arrears stand at approximately ₹851.3 crore, including ₹539 crore in principal and ₹312 crore in interest and penalties.
The scheme is applicable across domestic, commercial, and industrial categories, ensuring broad coverage. Consumers opting for the settlement will receive updated bills detailing the principal amount, waived interest, and final payable sum.
Authorities have enabled multiple payment options, including online platforms, kiosks, and digital payment systems, to facilitate easy compliance.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar urged residents to make use of the scheme within the three-month window, calling it a “last opportunity” to clear dues without incurring heavy penalties in the future.
Officials said the initiative is intended not only to ease the financial burden on citizens but also to improve revenue recovery for the water utility.
Key Highlights:
OTS scheme valid from April–June 2026
Interest/penalty waiver on payment of principal dues
Covers all consumer categories
Over 5 lakh defaulters targeted
Total pending dues: ₹851.3 crore
The BWSSB has encouraged consumers to act promptly, as no extension of the scheme has been indicated.
