Municipalities begin raising water prices

Following the increase in the price of drinking water supplied from Turkey, municipalities have also raised the charges for the water they supply to the public.

Although the new tariffs were reflected on meters within a short time, citizens struggling with economic difficulties suffered yet another blow.

These hikes, introduced at a time when purchasing power is declining and the cost of living is rising, triggered reactions from various segments of society.

Citizens with fixed incomes, in particular, state that such high prices for water—a basic necessity—will make their lives even more difficult.

According to a new regulation published in the Official Gazette on June 11, 2025, the sale price of drinking water sent from Turkey to TRNC municipalities was increased from 9.80 TL per ton (m³) to 18.28 TL. This regulation came into force on June 15, 2025. Thus, the sale price of water to municipalities rose by approximately 86 percent.

Following this increase, municipalities changed their water tariffs by making decisions in their own councils. The Çatalköy-Esentepe Municipality raised the minimum water tariff from 28 to 37 Turkish Lira, an increase of 9 Turkish Lira per ton. It is assumed that other municipalities have implemented similar increases.

Water supply problems are also increasing across the island. Mayor Kırık stated that due to various malfunctions, not enough water has been received in the last two weeks and that the country's water resources are no longer sufficient. Kırık said: “This year, we started consuming the 45 million m³ of water planned for 2035-2040. At this pace, demand will rise to 73-74 million m³ in 10 years. How will this demand be met? The answer to this question can no longer be postponed.”

Meanwhile, as citizens wonder whether further hikes are on the agenda due to rising water prices, it is said that municipalities may take new measures by the end of the year to maintain their financial balance. All eyes are now on the tariffs that other municipalities will implement.