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NCR Housing Bills Set to Rise Due to Minimum Wage Hikes
2 Jun
Summary
- Revised minimum wages significantly increased manpower costs for essential staff.
- Manpower expenses constitute up to 85% of housing society operating costs.
- Residents are demanding greater transparency on proposed maintenance charge hikes.
Housing societies in the National Capital Region (NCR) are revising maintenance charges following a substantial increase in minimum wages. This hike directly impacts the cost of employing essential staff, including security guards, housekeeping personnel, and maintenance workers, who represent a significant portion of operational expenses.
The revised wage structure has led to notable increases across various worker categories. In Noida and Ghaziabad, unskilled workers now earn Rs 13,690, a 21% rise from the old Rs 11,313. Semi-skilled and skilled workers also saw approximately 20-21% increases.
Gurugram has seen even steeper hikes, with unskilled workers' wages rising by about 35% to Rs 15,220. Semi-skilled and skilled workers in Gurugram may experience increases of 35-42%, with highly skilled roles like technicians and engineers seeing a 35% jump.
These increased manpower costs are compelling many societies to consider raising common area maintenance (CAM) charges. For instance, Emaar Palm Gardens in Gurugram increased its CAM charges from Rs 3.15 to Rs 4.37 per square foot.
While some societies are exploring cost-saving measures, such as operational efficiencies and solar power installations, many argue these efforts are insufficient to offset the wage increases, making fee hikes necessary.
However, residents are questioning the necessity and transparency of these proposed increases. Many are demanding detailed cost breakdowns and clear explanations before approving higher maintenance bills, seeking to ensure that all avenues for savings are exhausted first.
