MLA urges Jamshedpur DC to convene meeting on affordable drinking water for poor

High Water Fees Deny Access to the Poor: Saryu Roy

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Dec 25: Jamshedpur West MLA Saryu Roy has written to the Deputy Commissioner of East Singhbhum, urging a meeting to address the provision of affordable drinking water facilities for the economically weaker sections in the region. Roy emphasized the need to include key stakeholders such as the Deputy Municipal Commissioner of JNAC, the General Manager of Tata Steel UISL, and himself in the discussions to ensure practical solutions are implemented.

In his letter, Roy highlighted the challenges faced by residents in accessing water connections due to exorbitant fees. “It is not feasible for people living in slums, who are daily wage labourers, to pay Rs. 13,000 to Rs. 25,000 for water connections. This leaves many households in Kadma, Sonari, and Bistupur without access to clean drinking water,” he stated.

Roy called upon Tata Steel UISL to waive connection charges for households in Jamshedpur West settlements, referencing the Tata Lease Renewal Agreement-2005. “The agreement clearly states that Tata Steel UISL must provide public amenities, including water connections, at the same rates as charged by government municipalities,” he noted, adding that infrastructure costs should be borne by Tata Steel UISL.

The MLA also pointed out that while the state government recently increased water connection fees, it has exempted below-poverty-line (BPL) families from these charges. “Families with an annual income below Rs. 70,000, who are eligible for schemes like Ayushman Bharat and the State Government’s Critical Illness Scheme, should also qualify for free water connections,” he suggested.

Addressing ambiguities in the Tata Lease Renewal Agreement-2005, Roy explained, “There are clear provisions for providing public facilities, but it’s unclear who oversees their implementation. The state government has informed me that the Deputy Commissioner acts as the controlling officer in such cases.”

Roy concluded by requesting immediate action. “I urge the Deputy Commissioner to call a meeting with the relevant officials to chart a path forward and ensure affordable access to drinking water for economically weaker sections,” he said.