RAIGARH, CHHATTISGARH (India CSR): While ordinary citizens face strict penalties for delayed water tax payments, industries in Raigarh enjoy shocking leniency. A recent investigation reveals that 51 industries are illegally extracting groundwater without permission, while 75 others have collectively defaulted on Rs 194 crore in water charges. Despite repeated notices, authorities have taken no action, raising concerns over corruption and mismanagement.
Industries Enjoy Unchecked Water Exploitation
The Water Resources Department supplies water to industries from various sources, including dams and rivers, under strict agreements. However, many companies have ignored their dues for years.
- Top Defaulters: TRN Energy (Rs 70 crore), Visa Power (Rs 50 crore), Monnet Steel (now JSW Steel, Rs 21 crore), Shyam Steel (Rs 6 crore), and others collectively owe Rs 194 crore.
- No Penalties: Despite rules mandating interest and contract termination for non-payment, no enforcement has been taken.
Key Facts: Raigarh’s Water Scandal
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Defaulting Industries | 75 industries owe unpaid water charges |
| Total Outstanding Dues | Rs 194 crore |
| Top Defaulters | TRN Energy (Rs 70 cr), Visa Power (Rs 50 cr), Monnet Steel (Rs 21 cr), Shyam Steel Rs 6 cr) |
| Illegal Groundwater Extraction | 51 industries operating unauthorized tube wells |
| Major Violators | Salasar Steel, Seleno Steel, Shivshakti Steel, JSPL Gejamuda |
| Legal Penalty Rules | 24% interest + 1% annual fee after 3 months; contract termination after 6 months |
| Authority’s Response | No strict action despite repeated notices |
| Impact | Depleting groundwater, threat to drinking water & agriculture |
Illegal Groundwater Extraction Worsens Crisis
With groundwater levels depleting rapidly, 51 industries continue illegal extraction via unauthorized tube wells. Only two have sought proper permits.
- Violators Include: Salasar Steel, Seleno Steel, Shivshakti Steel, Shakambhari Steel, and JSPL Gejamuda.
- No Action: Despite bans on borewells, industries operate unchecked, worsening the water crisis.
Double Standards in Water Management
While citizens face strict penalties, industries evade accountability. Experts warn that unchecked exploitation could lead to severe water shortages, affecting agriculture and drinking water supplies.
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