(MENAFN- Arab Times) The Ministry of Electricity and Water (MEW) faces difficulties in collecting bill payments due to a number of factors, reports Al-Qabas daily quoting economic expert Hajaj Bu Khoudar.
Khoudar claimed the people pay less than what they actually consume; hence, the need for the ministry to find a better alternative in ensuring the collection of appropriate fees for electricity, water and other services. He warned that failure to take concrete steps in this regard may have adverse effects on the economy.
On the collection of payments for accumulated bills, Khoudar suggested a mechanism whereby the consumers will be required to pay their bills every time they renew their residential permits, license and other documents. He also proposed increasing fees for those with huge consumption, such as charging 2.5 fils per watt instead of one fil.
In another development, Al-Watan daily has reported that Assistant Undersecretary for Water Maintenance and Operation Eng Mohammad Bu Shahri has announced the signing of two contracts within this week to repair damages and install new links in the North and South at a total estimated cost of KD 6.4 million within three years.
Furthermore, Bu Shahri confirmed the activation of a protocol signed between the ministry and the National Guard within the week to train officers specialized in technical and engineering fields. He explained the initiative is part of the commitment of all government agencies to coordinate their efforts in dealing with any emergency. He added this will ensure smooth flow of work procedures in all institutions which provide public services, including water and electricity.
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