High time States set up water regulators

The tariff policy framed by a water regulator should be based on consultative approach and the consumers may be charged only the operation and maintenance costs in the initial stages and the capital costs later. There is a need to protect the vulnerable sections through targeted subsidy. The positioning of an independent water regulator is an important step in managing water in the 21st century. The water institutions created in the 20th century in States are unlikely to deliver positive results unless these are restructured and comprehensive reforms are initiated in the water sector.