Greater Noida Authority Ramps Up Efforts to Recover Rs 30 Crore Water Dues
Greater Noida Authority has set a target to collect Rs 30 crore in pending water dues. With over 270 major defaulters, the authority is using smart water meters and other strategies to improve collection rates by the end of the financial year.
As the financial year draws to a close, the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) is intensifying its efforts to recover outstanding water bills. With just two months remaining before the fiscal year ends, the authority has set a target to collect Rs 30 crore out of the pending Rs 68 crore. So far, the authority has managed to collect only Rs 38 crore, approximately 55% of the target.
To achieve its target, GNIDA has issued notices to over 270 major defaulters from various sectors, including industrial, institutional, group housing, and commercial establishments. These defaulters, whose water dues exceed Rs 50,000, have been asked to clear their pending payments or file grievances if they believe there are discrepancies in their bills. Rajesh Gautam, a senior manager at GNIDA, explained that the authority has ramped up its efforts to improve collection this year. Last year, GNIDA managed to collect Rs 44 crore against a target of Rs 61 crore, achieving 72% of its goal. This year, however, the target has been increased, and GNIDA is exploring several strategies to improve the collection rate. The authority has stated that water charges apply from the date of possession after the completion certificate is issued, even if the water supply is not being used, a point clearly outlined in the lease agreements.
One of the key initiatives in this regard is the installation of smart water meters across various types of properties in Greater Noida. These meters are designed to curb water wastage, streamline the process of generating accurate bills, and improve the overall recovery of dues. The installation of these smart meters will be prioritised in bulk water users such as group housing societies, industrial complexes, and commercial establishments, where water consumption is typically higher. Greater Noida has more than 300 group housing societies, and the installation of smart meters in these societies is expected to make a significant impact on reducing water wastage and improving billing accuracy. As part of the pilot project, GNIDA installed smart water meters in two housing societies in November 2024. The trial period lasted a month, and the officials are now awaiting the project report to assess its effectiveness before scaling it up.
In addition to the installation of smart meters, GNIDA is also making efforts to address billing grievances. Officials have urged allottees to either settle their dues or raise any concerns they may have regarding incorrect or disputed bills. The authority has made it clear that the water charges are applicable as per the terms in the lease agreements, regardless of whether the water supply is utilised or not. The installation of smart water meters is just one part of GNIDA’s broader plan to enhance its water billing and recovery process. Once the meters are fully installed, they will not only assist in improving the accuracy of bills but also help in monitoring water usage in real-time. This initiative is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing the financial health of the authority, reducing wastage, and improving customer satisfaction. Officials are optimistic that these combined efforts, including improved billing systems and smarter infrastructure, will help the authority reach its target for this financial year. As the deadline looms, the emphasis on efficient recovery and technological upgrades is likely to make a noticeable difference in both the revenue collection and the region’s overall water management.
