Sewa charges are conundrum

The latest decision by the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (Sewa) to raise the deposits paid by all utility subscribers comes at a time when the cost of living and inflation have reached new heights.

Many questions have risen as a result of this announcement; does this mean Sewa will be providing additional services? Should tenants prepare themselves for another increase in the near future? And could this become a trend and extend beyond electricity and water?

The fact that Sewa did not explain why its customers must pay the extra deposits, including those who had already made their payment years ago, should be met with concern. It is unjustified since customers received no forewarning or even details behind the decision.

At the end of the day, people will have no choice but to pay the extra money but given the deposit hike, Sharjah tenants will have higher expectations in terms of service and efficiency.