Electricity, water connections halted for Jamshedpur buildings lacking certificates

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur: Over a hundred newly constructed buildings in Jamshedpur are facing delays in receiving electricity and water connections due to pending applications at Tata Steel UISL. The delay is attributed to the requirement of completion and occupancy certificates, without which the connections will not be provided. Authorities are also gearing up to take action against illegal buildings constructed in areas like Sakchi, Golmuri, Sonari, Kadma, and Bistupur.

The Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC) has sent a letter to Tata Steel UISL (Jusco), instructing them not to grant electricity and water connections to buildings lacking proper documentation. As a result, UISL has stopped providing connections to new buildings until the required certificates are submitted.

Krishna Kumar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner of JNAC, explained, “Electricity and water connections will only be granted upon showing the Occupancy Certificate and Completion Certificate. Only those buildings with proper documentation will be able to get these connections.”

This move has created a stir among builders and developers, many of whom claim that they are not being issued the necessary occupancy certificates. A delegation from the Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce and the Builder Association is planning to meet with government officials to address the issue. Vijay Anand Moonka, President of Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce, argued, “There should be no ban on electricity and water connections. Those who have constructed buildings as per the approved map should be granted connections. Alternatively, occupancy certificates should be issued so that thousands of people can earn their livelihood.”

The issue has deep roots in the long-standing enforcement of building regulations. In 2011, following High Court orders, a list of illegal buildings was compiled, and 70 buildings were sealed due to map violations. JNAC had also ordered the disconnection of electricity and water services to buildings built without following regulations. Some of these buildings resumed construction after having the seals lifted.

The matter continues to spark controversy, with ongoing discussions about how to balance enforcement with the needs of investors and builders.