Chile and Colombia implement water consumption subsidies

Various social programs in Chile and Colombia are providing relief for water and sanitation costs.

In Chile, a subsidy for potable water and sewerage consumption is available to both urban and rural households. The benefit can cover between 25% and 85% of monthly expenses, depending on socioeconomic status. For families within the 'Subsistema Seguridades y Oportunidades', the subsidy covers 100% of the first 15 cubic meters consumed. Applicants must be permanent residents, heads of household, and registered in the 'Registro Social de Hogares'. The subsidy lasts for three years and requires renewal.

In Barranquilla, Colombia, the city council has approved the first debate of a project to establish a 'minimum vital' water scheme. This program aims to cover the cost of the first six cubic meters of water consumed monthly for households in strata 1 and 2, as well as vulnerable households in stratum 3. The initiative is expected to benefit over 200,000 subscribers, providing significant relief amid rising costs associated with the El Niño phenomenon.