JMM backs people displaced by BSL water pipeline project

Bokaro: The local unit of JMM on Tuesday lend its support to the agitation by the people who have been displaced for the five-kilometre alternate water pipeline project that would connect the Bokaro Steel (BSL) plant with the Damodar river.
The displaced persons have halted work on the project at Pachora village, located eight kilometres from Sector 9 in Bokaro town, since February 24.
They are demanding jobs and adequate compensation for the affected from the PSU. The pipeline work had started in 2019.
BSL director in-charge Amarendu Prakash tried several times to pacify the agitators, but in vain.
JMM’s support to the ongoing agitation has further cast shadow on the pipeline project, which is an alternative to the 34-kilometre-long Tenu Canal between BSL and Tenughat dam.
“The pipeline work being laid from Damodar river to the BSL will not be allowed until the BSL management solves the problems of Pachora and other displaced villages located in the fringes of the plant,” said Hiralal Manjhi, the district president of JMM, on Tuesday.
He added, “JMM is with the displaced persons on this issue. There should be a tripartite dialogue among the district administration, the BSL, and the displaced people for a written agreement. The BSL management always misleads the displaced people of this area.”
Meanwhile, BSL spokesperson Manikant Dhan refused to comment. The BSL is working on projects to double its production by 2030.