The UK government has announced a comprehensive reform of the water industry in England and Wales following an independent review that described the sector as broken. The 465-page report by the Independent Water Commission, led by Sir John Cunliffe, makes 88 recommendations including the abolition of the current water regulator, Ofwat. The report proposes replacing Ofwat with a single, more powerful regulator that would consolidate responsibilities from Ofwat, the Drinking Water Inspectorate, and environmental functions from the Environment Agency and Natural England. The reforms aim to address longstanding issues such as polluted rivers, leaking pipes, and rising water bills, which are expected to increase by around 30%. The review also recommends mandatory water meters and tighter oversight of company ownership but stops short of endorsing public ownership or democratization of the water industry. Environment Secretary Steve Reed confirmed the government will implement these changes, describing them as the biggest overhaul of water regulation in a generation. The new regulatory framework intends to better protect the environment, consumers, and investors, though the report suggests easing fines for pollution to avoid company collapses. The water sector and campaigners have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the reforms and others criticizing the continuation of privatization and voluntary corporate governance codes.