The UK government is set to implement a comprehensive reform of the water industry in England and Wales following the release of a 465-page report by the Independent Water Commission. The report, authored by Sir John Cunliffe, makes 88 recommendations aimed at addressing issues such as polluted rivers, leaking pipes, and rising water bills. Central to the reforms is the abolition of the current water regulator, Ofwat, which the report criticizes for its light-touch regulatory approach encouraged by the government. It proposes the creation of a new, more powerful regulator that would consolidate the functions of Ofwat, the Drinking Water Inspectorate, and environmental roles from the Environment Agency and Natural England. The reforms also include tighter oversight of water company ownership and the introduction of mandatory water meters. The government, led by Environment Secretary Steve Reed, has confirmed it will scrap Ofwat as part of what it describes as the biggest overhaul of water regulation in a generation. The report and government response come amid public anger over sewage spills and environmental concerns. However, the review stops short of recommending public ownership or the democratization of the water sector and suggests easing pollution fines to avoid company collapses. The reforms are expected to result in a 30% increase in water bills, according to the report and related commentary from industry observers.