J-K govt to charge NHPC for using water from state’s rivers

The bill,which has now become an Act,envisages to charge power projects run by the NHPC and other companies for using the state’s water resources for generation of electricity.

The state expects to generate Rs 850 crore annually from levying water usage for the power projects.

“As per our estimates,the state would generate Rs 850 crores annually even if only two paise per cubic tonne of water is charged from the power houses,” Irrigation Minister Taj Mohiuddin said.

The minister said it was necessary to regulate water resources as it is the responsibility of the state government to ensure safety of the lives and properties of the people.

He said the bill will consolidate the law relating to use of water,measurement,construction,control and management of works with respect to water storage,conservation and protection.

It will also control irrigation,water supply,drainage,flood control,improvement in the flow of water and safety and surveillance of dams.

As per the Act,a State Water Resources Regulatory Authority will be established for regulating water resources,ensuring judicious,equitable and sustainable management,allocation and utilisation of water resources and fixing the rates for use of water.