Tue Jan 20 12:24:02 UTC 2026: # Sabarimala Pilgrimage Water Dues Dispute Resolved After Years of Arrears

The Story:
A protracted disagreement between the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) and the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) concerning outstanding water charges has finally been settled. The TDB released ₹8.30 crore towards water charges, primarily accumulated for facilitating the annual Sabarimala pilgrimage. This payment resolves disputes concerning arrears incurred up to October 2025. However, the High Court has directed the board to clear an additional ₹2.63 crore bill from the recent pilgrimage season within two weeks.

Key Points:

  • The TDB had arrears of ₹15.98 crore for water supplied to Sabarimala, Nilackal, Pampa, and along the route to the Sannidhanam.
  • The TDB paid ₹8.30 crore on January 16, 2026, resolving arrears up to October 2025.
  • Between July 2024 and December 2025, the TDB has paid a total of ₹27.58 crore to the KWA.
  • The KWA granted a concession of ₹2.68 crore by waiving the penalty amount.
  • The High Court has directed the TDB to clear ₹2.63 crore for the most recent pilgrimage season within two weeks and consider extending bulk water rates.
  • Other government institutions in Pathanamthitta district also owe substantial dues to the KWA, including Pathanamthitta General Hospital (₹4.90 crore), Konni Medical College (₹33 lakh), Mini Civil Stations (₹1.83 crore), and the District Police Superintendent’s office (₹2.64 lakh).

Key Takeaways:

  • The resolution of the water dues dispute between the KWA and the TDB is a positive step towards improved financial management and accountability within both organizations.
  • The High Court’s intervention highlights the importance of timely payments for essential services and the need for fair water rates for religious institutions.
  • The significant arrears owed by other government institutions in Pathanamthitta underscores a broader systemic issue of delayed payments and financial strain on the KWA.

Impact Analysis:

The settlement of the KWA-TDB dispute has several long-term implications:

  • Financial Stability for KWA: The payment provides much-needed funds for the KWA, allowing it to maintain and improve water supply infrastructure in the region.
  • Precedent for Future Payments: The High Court’s directive regarding the most recent bill and the consideration of bulk water rates could set a precedent for future water charges for the Sabarimala pilgrimage and other similar institutions.
  • Increased Scrutiny of Government Arrears: The revelation of substantial arrears owed by other government institutions may lead to increased scrutiny and pressure to improve payment practices across the board. This, in turn, can ensure better resource allocation for critical public services like water supply.

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