Water rates paid by Mexicali residents are expected to rise up to 8 percent next year, state officials said.

Secretary of Water Management and Protection Francisco Bernal said fees will rise in 2022 statewide.

In Mexicali, rates will increase at least 3 percent.

The cost of a cubic meter will go from about three dollars to $3.50.

The climb is necessary due to the precarious situation of Water agencies, the Secretary said.

“We think these increases can somehow improve the operations of Water agencies,” Bernal said.

The Secretary explained that the rate increase will impact big consumers like businesses. Funds collected through fees will mostly go to cover infrastructure projects.