MLA Saryu Roy emphasizes the need for a long-term, comprehensive solution to the escalating drinking water crisis in Jamshedpur.
JAMSHEDPUR – Saryu Roy, former minister and MLA, opines that the deepening drinking water crisis in Jamshedpur can’t be solved by minor immediate adjustments. A long-term, comprehensive solution needs to be put in place to effectively tackle the issue.
Previously, water provision issues were primarily associated with the Moharda drinking water supply project due to the decline in river water flow. However, today, the crisis extends to the Tata lease area of Jamshedpur.
Effects of Urbanization on Water Quality
The MLA stated that Tata Steel’s companies, initially JUSCO and now TSUISL, have been providing drinking water in Jamshedpur and running the Moharda drinking water supply project. Unfortunately, the condition of Subarnarekha and Kharkai rivers has been deteriorating due to unchecked urbanization, leading to the contamination of their water.
According to Roy, removing water hyacinth, adding chemicals during water purification, and releasing limited water from Chandil Dam and Dimna Lake is not a sustainable solution.
Proposed Strategies for Improved Water Supply
For industrial and drinking water supplies in Jamshedpur and nearby areas, planning should be done considering Subarnarekha, Kharkai, and their tributaries, which are primary sources for surface water.
Roy also proposed the establishment of a group of experts for consultation. This group, comprising both internal and external experts, would advise Tata Steel and the government on dealing with the crisis. Roy plans to introduce this concept at the forthcoming meeting organized by the Government’s Urban Development Department.
Short-Term Suggestions
Roy listed several shorter-term measures:
1. Draw water directly from the rivers for industrial supply.
2. Pump water daily from Chandil Dam into Dimna Lake for drinking supply to Jamshedpur and neighbouring areas.
3. Establish a drinking water supply structure at Satnala Dam.
4. Maintain Subarnarekha’s environmental flow from Chandil Dam.
5. Implement a drain-based development plan for Jamshedpur.
6. Include a sewerage system in urbanization plans.
7. Recycle used water.
8. Form a joint committee of Tata Steel and the Jharkhand government to oversee industrial and drinking water supplies.
Roy has also acknowledged the complaints he received about contaminated drinking water in the Tata lease area and assured immediate action on the same.
On July 14th, he had tweeted that consumers have sent him some complaints about supply water and that he has sent the screenshots to the TSUISL MD.
