Tamil Nadu: Bottled Water Prices Soar Amidst Summer Heat, Production Costs

• Bottled drinking water prices have increased across Tamil Nadu due to intensifying summer heat and rising demand.
• The cost of a 20-litre water can is up by Rs 5, a 1-litre bottle by Rs 3, and smaller bottles like 200ml (now Rs 10) and 300ml (now Rs 12) have also seen hikes.
• Manufacturers attribute the price hike to a nearly 40% rise in raw material expenses, higher electricity tariffs, escalating fuel prices, and increased labour wages.
• Global factors, including a shortage of plastic raw materials in international markets, have also contributed to increased production costs.
• Industry representatives state the price revision is unavoidable to sustain operations amidst rising input costs and high summer demand.