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This is in response to the report “High power deals in tender trap” published on 30.01.03. Statements in the report, attributed to some JSEB “sources”, are biased and devoid of truth. We would like to place the following facts, which are verifiable, for the readers.
The Union ministry for power appointed Mecon as consultant for their Accelerated Power Development and Reforms Programme in August 2001, based on the examination of Mecon’s credentials in the field of power distribution.
Mecon was allotted this job not only in Jharkhand but also in three other states — Rajasthan, Uttaranchal and Tamil Nadu. Mecon has submitted project reports in this regard, which has been acclaimed to be the most comprehensive at the national level.
Jharkhand State Electricity Board appointed Mecon as their technical consultant based on Mecon’s credentials. Even though the Union ministry for Power vetted Mecon’s credentials, JSEB assigned jobs to Mecon for a competitive fee, much lower than the industry norm. On several occasions, JSEB requested Mecon to be consultants, without any fees. Mecon, as consultant, is a proven leader in this field for the past 40 years.
Over the years, Mecon bagged consultancy jobs of projects aided by World Bank and also through regulatory commission of state electricity boards in Bihar, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu despite stiff competition.
Mecon is the single largest house in the country that has technical, technological and IT-based knowledge required to carry out jobs involving multidisciplinary skills under one roof.
S.K. Sahu Manager (Public Relations)
Mecon, Ranchi
It was heartening to learn that chief minister Babulal Marandi has backed Tata Steel on the issue of the revival of ISWP, an ailing industry of the Steel City that was once famous for producing top quality wire rods.
The revival of ISWP and Incab, another sick industry of Jamshedpur, will not only provide a new lease of life to these industries, but will also save the jobs of thousands of workers, who, otherwise, would have only added to the already bloated list of the unemployed.
Industries in Jharkhand will also receive a boost, as the revival would attract a host of external investors.
One must realise that in today’s era of rising unemployment, there are hardly any chances of the urban migration to the rural areas. Urban unemployment will only give rise to loot, theft and dacoity, which will have a negative effect on society.
The revival of ISWP and Incab will bring back the lost glory of their respective areas in Jamshedpur and the residents of these areas who had felt neglected over the years would regain their self-confidence. The economy of the state would also benefit by this revival, as there are many small units that are dependent on these companies.
Several people who earn their livelihood by setting up small shops and kiosks in these areas are indirectly dependent on the survival of these two industries.
Tata Steel has always risen to such occasions and has helped shape Jamshedpur. The uninterrupted supply of electricity to Incab and ISWP during Durga Puja is a good example to reflect the concern of the steel giant, not only for its employees but also for those belonging to other companies.
Tata Steel’s offer should be pursued vigorously by the state government considered seriously by Jaswant Singh, union finance minister so that the revival process is started at the earliest. “Where there is a will, there is a way”, says an old saying.
Let us hope that Tata Steel is given an opportunity to bring cheer to hundreds of families of ISWP & Incab who are fighting for survival. With an honest effort made by the chief minister in this regard, one hopes that Jaswant Singh gives the approval as a birthday gift to our chief minister on the occasion of Jharkhand’s second birthday, which falls on Nov.15.
S. Balakrishnan
Sonari, Jamshedpur
We mothers wanted to pass on this message to our World Cup team who have been trying hard to bring home the Cup. Here it goes: “We, the mothers of Jamshedpur, bless all the cricketers of our country. Stay calm and play well. We are sure you will reach your goal.”
S. Dey
Sakchi, Jamshedpur
I would like to draw the attention of the authorities concerned towards problems faced by residents of the East Sonary area near the Janta slum due to rampant encroachment and illegal occupation of vacant plots. The slum-dwellers are also illegally tapping power from a Tisco line and selling illicit liquor.
The Sonari police are aware of the fact but seem to be doing little to solve the problem. Even the deputy commissioner and the Tisco town services seemed to have turned a blind eye to the problem. The Central excise personnel also seemed to be involved in keeping the menace under wraps.
The JNAC had been informed in writing about it but nothing has taken place. It is high time that someone takes the initiative and does something to stop the mushrooming of liquor dens.
Gurdeep Singh, Sonary East, Jamshedpur
The tussle between power minister Lalchand Mahato and JSEB chairman Rajeev Ranjan has adversly affected the health of the electricity scenario in the state. The two are least bothered about the problems of the people of the state. Most of the villages in the state have no electricity.
Even in urban areas the power supply is erratic and because of this no industries are coming up in Jharkhand. This in turn is badly affecting the development of the new state. But who is bothered? They are only worried about their positions. I would request both to iron out their differences and think about the welfare of the people of the state instead of fighting over insignificant things.
Vartika Srivastava
Harmu Housing Colony, Ranchi
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