CWA Revises Water Subsidy Policy for Up to 6 m³

The government’s decision to revise the water subsidy mechanism for up to 6 cubic meters per month marks a significant change in the financial and social management of the Central Water Authority (CWA). From now on, only households registered with the Social Register of Mauritius will benefit from this exemption, a measure that aims to rectify a historical injustice while ensuring the financial viability of the organization.

According to CWA Director Shyam Thanoo, this reform is part of a rebalancing effort. He recalls that the original system was implemented in 2016 under the previous administration, with the goal of reducing bills for households consuming between 0 and 6 m³ of water per month. "At that time, the CWA received a subsidy to compensate for this measure. However, after 2016, this subsidy ceased, while the free access remained," he explains.

Thanoo states that analyses conducted by the CWA revealed significant negative effects. Nearly 75,000 beneficiaries of the subsidy did not match the profile of vulnerable households initially targeted. "Our studies show that a large portion of these individuals own secondary residences. They have the means to pay for their water consumption," asserts the CWA director. Hence, the new government’s decision to end this perceived inequity.

In practical terms, only households registered with the Social Register of Mauritius (SRM) will continue to benefit from the exemption for consumption up to 6 m³ per month. This measure will enable the CWA to achieve an estimated saving of Rs 45 million. It is a breath of fresh air for an organization facing recurring financial difficulties, particularly due to operating costs, network maintenance, and necessary investments to improve distribution.

However, Shyam Thanoo wants to reassure eligible beneficiaries. "Individuals registered with the social register will continue to benefit from this facility. Currently, there are about 4,500 households under the SRM, and this register remains dynamic," he specifies. To prevent any misconduct or injustice, the CWA will implement ongoing monitoring in collaboration with social security services and the National Empowerment Foundation (NEF). "There will be close monitoring to ensure that assistance truly reaches those in need," he insists.

Beyond the financial aspect, the reform also aims to improve service quality. According to the CWA director, better financial health will allow the organization to invest more in modernizing infrastructure and reducing water losses. "Restoring some equity also empowers us to offer better service to all subscribers," he concludes.

Increased Security After Attack at CWA Flacq

Following a recent attack at a Central Water Authority (CWA) treatment center in Flacq, additional security measures have been implemented to protect staff and facilities. The incident prompted the CWA management to reassess its security arrangements in close collaboration with the police.

According to CWA Director Shyam Thanoo, security personnel assigned to various sites are now equipped with a panic button linked to a sound alarm, deterring malicious individuals and quickly alerting in case of danger. "The premises are now fitted with an alarm system. In the event of a theft or assault attempt, security personnel will be better equipped," he explains.

Additionally, security agents and some CWA staff participated in a workshop with the Crime Prevention Unit on best practices for preventing and managing risky situations. The police investigation is ongoing, and the CWA hopes these measures will help prevent any recurrence.