CONCERNS have been raised by Honiara residents over illegal water connections in certain squatter settlements in and around the national capital and many perceive this an act of injustice to the user-pay customers of Solomon Water (SW).
It has been discovered that some individuals in squatter settlements in and around Honiara have illegally connected water to their homes by installing pipelines underground to avoid detection by SW officials.
These illegal connections allow many to access water without paying, while eligible SW customers continue to pay their bills.
“This is not a new thing here in the capital city. However, this practice is unfair as many of us work hard to pay for our water bills every month,” one concerned resident from Green Valley told Solomon Star in an interview yesterday
“Many people dig into Solomon Water’s pipelines at the T-connection points to attach their illegal pipes underground to the pipelines to supply water directly to their homes.” the concerned resident said.
“Solomon Water needs to take action to address this issue. The problem lies with squatters who continue this practice and this is unfair to others who struggle to pay their water bills,” the Green Valley resident said.
“With the rising cost of living in the country, this is a serious matter.
“We are struggling to cope with the high cost of living. Each day we try our best to make ends, whilst some are taking a free ride, connecting water illegally to their homes, ” the concerned Green Valley resident added.
The unauthorized connections have reportedly gone unnoticed by Solomon Water, raising concerns about revenue loss and potential strain on the water supply system.
Residents are calling for stricter monitoring and enforcement to ensure everyone contributes fairly to the use of the essential utility service.
Meanwhile, SW has increased its tariff rates, which became effective on 1 January.
It said the increased tariff rates reflect the rising costs of water production and supply.
The revised water tariffs for domestic use are as follows:
- 0 to 15 kilolitres – $10.43,
- 15 to 30 kilolitres -$ $15.49
- 30 kilolitres and above – $18.1
The revised tariffs for commercial use are as follows:
- 0 to15 kilolitres – $40.73
- 15 to 30 kilolitres- $45.79
- 30 kilolitres and above – $50.85
This marks an approximate annual increase of 5 per-cent since the last price adjustment in January 2024.
Chief Executive Officer Carmine Piantedosi acknowledged the impact of the tariff rates on households.
“We understand that price changes affect families, but tariff adjustments should also remind customers to be conscious of their water usage and take steps to conserve and use water responsibly,” he said.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Honiara
