Your views: Tiered water pricing could soften blow

The rationale behind the 30 per cent increase in the price of water in the Budget statement is understandable, but more can be done to soften the impact of the rise ("Price hike to secure future supply"; Feb 21).

There should be rewards for those who go all the way to cut down on household water usage and incentives for others to work towards doing the same.

Perhaps a four-tier water pricing system could be worked out. The first tier is for those who fall below or meet the maximum amount of water allowed for a family of four. Those in this tier need not face a price increase.

The subsequent tiers are for those who use progressively more water.

The second tier will face a 30 per cent price increase, third tier 60 per cent and the last tier 100 per cent.

For those who are well to do, the 30 per cent increase is nothing, and it is unlikely that they will cut down on their water usage.

Singapore

Suspected pipe burst disrupts water supply at Kim Tian Road

Apr 17, 2024

Related Stories

Carefree boy captures hearts with void deck ‘water slide’

Men wash 'armpits and butts' at water fountain outside National Stadium

PUB: Most pipe leaks due to wear and tear

But for the lower-income group, especially those not living in Housing Board flats, who are jobless or retired, and who do not qualify for subsidies and cash grants, the increase comes at a time when they are faced with a poor economic and job outlook, high food prices and inflation.

With the water price increase and diesel tax, there is also a need for government agencies to monitor and come down hard on those who take the opportunity to increase their prices.

Hawkers, restaurants, coffee shops, and private and public transport agencies are a few of the likely culprits.

It is hoped that the Government will do more to help residents work towards a common objective for the betterment of Singapore.

E-mail your views and photos to tnptalk@sph.com.sg 
You can also write to us at The New Paper, 1000 Toa Payoh North, Level 6, Annexe Block, Singapore 318994

For verification, we need the writer's full name and contact number (preferably a mobile phone). We reserve the right to edit letters. By your submission, it is deemed that you have granted us the right to archive, resell or reproduce the letter in any medium.