The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has proposed relaxation of Value Added Tax (VAT) for filters a key component used in the installation of the RWH structures. At present, nearly 12.5 per cent VAT is being charged on the cost of the filters.The filter, the most vital component in the RWH apparatus, is used to remove dust and other solid matter present in water.
Rooftop rainwater harvesting systems are now mandatory for new buildings in 18 of India’s 28 states. A rule requiring all new buildings in Bangalore to incorporate water harvesting systems will be extended to all cities in Karnataka state next year. Section 72A of the Act mandated that all new buildings of sital area of 1,200 square feet (30 x 40 site) and above and existing buildings having a sital area of 2,400 square feet (40 x 60) install RWH structures in their premises.The deadline for complying with the Act expires on May 27 this year.
BWSSB move is intended to motivate the public to opt for RWH before the May 27 deadline.There are three types of filters presently used in the different types of RWH methods: a pop-up filter, a rainy filter and a sand filter.The Rainy filter costs Rs 5,000 and the discount could bring down the price to Rs 4,400. The BWSSB is also calling for Expression of Interest from manufacturers of filters, said a source. To motivate plumbers to carry out Rain Water Harvesting (RWH), the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has announced cash incentives if they attain specific targets.
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