"As a first measure towards a water tax regime, it has been suggested that meters be installed and water usage and wastage be monitored. Right now, these buildings won't be charged for the water used. But they will be monitored. Researchers from Jadavpur University who have prepared a detailed report on water have said the KMC can offer water to 100 per cent residents of the city without increasing water supply further, but only if it manages to stop the current wastage. Around 50 per cent of the water supplied is wasted on transit," said a senior KMC official.

The next move that the KMC will be taking up is to float a tender for appointing an agency that can install and operate water meters. "It won't be difficult to identify the public buildings in all the wards. We are awaiting a final word from the Mayor's office," a senior official of the KMC's water supply department told Newsline.

The KEIP representatives, meanwhile, reminded the KMC that the Rs 9 crore earmarked for water meters is inadequate. Despite repeated reminders from the ADB and the Union government, no concrete steps have been taken yet. Mayor Bhattacharya refused to divulge any details on the issue.