Jharia Rehabilitation: Rs 5,940 Crore Master Plan Approved
Government Greenlights Revised Plan for Jharia Coalfield
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave the go-ahead to the Revised Jharia Master Plan (JMP) on Wednesday. This plan will address fires, land subsidence, and the relocation of families affected by years of underground coal fires in Jharia coalfield, Jharkhand.
What’s New in the Revised Plan
The updated plan includes several key features:
- Total Budget: The plan will use Rs 5,940.47 crore.
- Step-by-Step Execution: The plan will be carried out in phases, focusing on the most critical areas first.
- Sustainable Jobs: The plan aims to create long-term job opportunities for relocated families.
Help for Affected Families
Families that need to move will get support, such as:
- Training programs to learn new skills
- Chances to earn money
- A one-time grant of Rs 1 lakh to help with livelihoods
- Credit support of up to Rs 3 lakh
Building Better Infrastructure
The Cabinet also agreed to build better infrastructure and essential services at the new resettlement sites. These include:
- Roads for better transport
- Reliable electricity supply
- Clean water for everyone
- Proper sewerage systems
- Schools for children’s education
- Hospitals for better healthcare
- Centers to learn new skills
- Community halls for gatherings
Creating Job Opportunities
To create more job opportunities, a special fund called the Jharia Alternative Livelihoods Rehabilitation Fund will be set up. Skill development programs will be run with the help of Multi Skill Development Institutes in the area.
