The Delhi government has introduced a major relief measure for residents struggling with water bill dues. Under the new one-time amnesty scheme, domestic consumers who clear their outstanding principal amounts by 31 January 2026 will receive a 100% waiver on late payment surcharges (LPSC). Those paying between 1 February and 31 March 2026 can still enjoy a 70% rebate. The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on households and strengthen the Delhi Jal Board’s (DJB) revenue recovery process.
Why the scheme was needed
The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has reported massive pending dues from consumers. According to official figures, the total outstanding amount stands at around ₹87,589 crore, of which a staggering ₹80,000 crore is due to accumulated late payment surcharges. This has created a long-standing issue for both residents and the utility board. The waiver program is designed to encourage people to pay their actual dues without being burdened by excessive penalties.
What the waiver covers — and what it doesn’t
What it waives: The amnesty covers only the late payment surcharge (LPSC) for domestic connections. If consumers pay their principal dues by the specified deadlines, they will receive a full or partial waiver based on the date of payment.
What it doesn’t waive: The principal water bill amount remains payable. Consumers must clear this amount in full to qualify for the waiver. The scheme targets penalty relief, not a reduction in actual water consumption charges.
How to check your rebate and pay
Residents can visit the official Delhi Jal Board (DJB) portal and use the “LPSC Rebate” section to check their rebate eligibility. By entering their KNO (consumer number), users can view outstanding principal, applicable rebate, and make online payments securely. It’s important to confirm that your connection is listed as domestic to ensure eligibility for the scheme.
Who is eligible
The waiver scheme applies strictly to domestic consumers in Delhi. Commercial, industrial, or government-owned properties are not eligible. The focus remains on helping regular households manage pending dues accumulated over years.
Early results and government targets
The initial response to the scheme has been promising. Thousands of Delhi residents have already availed of the amnesty, resulting in the collection of several crores in principal dues while waiving off a similar amount in penalties. Officials state that the recovered funds will be used to improve water pipelines, upgrade sewage treatment infrastructure, and strengthen DJB’s billing systems. Authorities also cautioned that after the scheme ends, defaulters may face strict action, including possible disconnection of water supply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the last date for 100% waiver?
The 100% waiver on late payment surcharges (LPSC) is available until 31 January 2026. After that, the benefit percentage reduces.
2. Is any waiver available after 31 January 2026?
Yes, consumers who pay between 1 February and 31 March 2026 will receive a 70% waiver on late payment charges.
3. Does the waiver apply to commercial connections?
No. The scheme is strictly for domestic connections. Commercial or industrial consumers are excluded.
4. Will the principal amount be reduced?
No. The waiver applies only to late fees. Consumers must pay the full principal amount of their water bill to qualify.
5. How do I check my rebate amount?
Visit the Delhi Jal Board’s official website and go to the “LPSC Rebate” section. Enter your KNO number to view rebate details and make the payment online.
6. What if I have a disputed or incorrect bill?
In case of disputed or inflated bills, consumers should contact the nearest DJB zonal office or file a complaint through the official grievance redressal channel before making payments. The waiver does not automatically apply to disputed amounts.
7. Can property buyers or tenants avail this benefit?
Only the registered consumer (KNO holder) of the water connection is eligible. Buyers or tenants must ensure ownership details are updated in DJB’s records to benefit.
8. What happens if I don’t pay by March 2026?
If payments remain pending after the waiver deadline, DJB may initiate recovery action, including potential disconnection of supply and penalties under existing laws.
9. Are unauthorized connections covered?
Yes, but under a separate regularization scheme. DJB has reduced penalties significantly — domestic users pay only ₹1,000 instead of ₹25,000 to regularize their connections before 31 January 2026.
10. How will the collected money be used?
DJB has announced that recovered funds from this scheme will be invested in improving Delhi’s water supply infrastructure, upgrading treatment plants, and strengthening the online billing and monitoring system to ensure future transparency.
Conclusion
The Delhi Water Bill Waiver 2025 is a timely and welcome step for lakhs of residents burdened by years of accumulated dues. It offers a golden opportunity to clear old bills without the heavy load of penalties. Consumers are encouraged to check their KNO numbers, verify their eligibility, and make payments within the deadlines to enjoy full benefits. Paying now not only provides financial relief but also contributes to the city’s long-term water sustainability goals.
Report by Toofan Express