Representative imageThiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) is the latest public sector entity that is in sizable debt. The KWA is running at a monthly loss of Rs 31.80 crores. Speaking in the State Assembly, minister Mathew T Thomas said that the KWA's monthly income, including the budget it gets from the government, stands at Rs 74.57 crore as opposed to a total monthly expenditure of Rs 106.37 crore. The estimated annual loss is Rs 386 crore and is partly to blame for the Rs 39 crore worth of unpaid pension from the previous year.
Even though the budget targets balancing the shortfall through greater government spending instead of levying more burden on the public, indications are that it will be difficult to make up the loss without increasing rates. Currently, the KWA is getting by through delaying the payment of outstanding bills with the electricity board and various contractors.
Heavy Burden
Rs 789.6 crore owed to KSEB, without fine or interest on fine, when looking at bills till last September.
Rs 351.50 crore in bills owed to State Plan, NABARD etc.
Rs 73.96 crore to various contractors for maintenance work in 2017.
Arrears on water bill yet to be received: Rs 1388.16 crore.
Monthly Income:
Water Bill: Rs 46.57 crore
From State govt: Rs 26.02 crore
From Central govt: Rs 1.98 crore
Total: Rs 74.57 crore
Monthly Expenditure:
Salary: Rs 38.25 crore
Pension: Rs 17.50 crore
Other Pension Benefits: Rs 8.71 crore
Water Bill: Rs 23.70 crore
Maintenance: Rs 8 crore
Miscellaneous Expenses: Rs 6.75 crore
Loans repayment and interest: Rs 4 crore
Total: Rs 106.37 crore
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