A: Hey there, did you hear some good news about Tokyo recently?
B: Nope, what's up?

A: They're gonna make basic water fees free for households this summer!
B: Really? That sounds great! Why though?

A: To encourage people to use air conditioning during inflation, so they can avoid heatstroke.
B: Oh, that makes sense. But how much could I save per month?

A: It depends on your water pipe size, but it could be between 6 and 10 dollars a month!
B: Wow, that's quite a bit actually! And they won't charge for water usage as well?

A: Nope, just the basic fees. The Tokyo government will cover the cost, which is about 255 million dollars.
B: That's a lot of money! But they'll ask for more during the assembly meeting in June, right?

A: Exactly! Governor Koike hopes this will help households save some money during inflation and extreme summer heat. She wants to create a secure living environment for everyone.
B: That sounds like a fantastic initiative! I can't wait to enjoy my air conditioning without worrying about bills. Thanks for sharing the news, friend!
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The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has decided to make basic water fees free for households this summer. The measure aims to encourage residents to use air conditioning despite inflation, in order to prevent heatstroke.



Officials say basic water charges will be waived for all households in Tokyo for four months from June or July, depending on the timing of a meter inspection.



Basic fees are determined by the diameter of water pipes attached to meters. The measure could result in a monthly reduction of 860 yen to 1,460 yen, or about 6 to 10 dollars, per household.



Water usage fees will be charged as before.



Tokyo's Bureau of Waterworks says the water supply serves about 8 million households and businesses in its 23 wards, as well as 26 cities in the Tama area, which make up about 98 percent of the total.



Officials plan to provide subsides to the municipal governments of the cities of Musashino, Akishima and Hamura, as well as Hinohara Village and islands not under the bureau's jurisdiction.



The Tokyo government hopes the measure will help reduce burden of inflation on households, and encourage residents to use air conditioners to prevent heatstroke.



Officials estimate 36.8 billion yen, or about 255 million dollars, will be necessary to implement the measure. They are set to submit a supplementary budget plan, including the cost, to the regular session of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly, which will start in June.



Tokyo Governor Koike Yukiko said the measure can help households save about 35 dollars amid inflation and forecasts for extreme summer heat. She said the Tokyo government hopes to create an environment where everyone can live with a sense of security.