A sudden and retrospective water tariff hike by the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has triggered widespread anger among residents and industries across Maharashtra. New tariffs, which have been enforced from September 1, are facing heavy criticism due to ongoing issues such as water leakages, mismanagement, and lack of transparency.

The new rates were announced via a circular dated September 9 from MIDC’s Mumbai headquarters, with local offices like Dombivli receiving a circular on September 11. However, the rates are being applied from September 1, raising serious concerns about procedural fairness and transparency.