Ranchi Assembly Approves Major Urban Development Budget
The Jharkhand state assembly, meeting in Ranchi on Monday, gave its approval to a substantial budget allocation of Rs 3,919.4 crore for the urban development and housing department. The approval was secured through a voice vote following a detailed debate, marking the resumption of the budget session after a scheduled break.
Minister Highlights Urban Waste and Mining Tourism
Participating actively in the debate, Urban Development Minister Sudivya Kumar underscored the significant challenge of urban waste disposal facing the government. "It is very difficult to secure land for waste management facilities. Whenever the government identifies a suitable plot for this purpose, local residents consistently oppose the initiative," Kumar informed the assembly. He further highlighted a positive development, noting that mining tourism has officially commenced in the state following a strategic agreement with the Central Coalfields Limited.
Opposition Raises Concerns Over Water and Traffic
BJP MLA Neera Yadav, contributing to the discussion, brought attention to the persistent struggles of citizens regarding access to clean drinking water. "Conflicts over water resources are a common occurrence during the summer months. Additionally, severe traffic congestion and inadequate waste disposal systems are causing considerable inconvenience to the local population," Yadav stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action on these fronts.
Call for Inquiry and Session Schedule
Earlier in the proceedings, Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi formally requested an inquiry into a reported audio clip allegedly featuring a conversation between a senior IAS officer and an IPS officer. The discussion reportedly touched upon central probe agencies and other sensitive matters. In response, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Radha Krishna Kishore asked for a copy of the audio clip to facilitate a proper investigation.
The business advisory committee of the state assembly, convening under Speaker Rabindra Nath Mahto, reached a consensus to conclude the ongoing budget session on March 18. This decision effectively shortens the session by one day, as it was originally scheduled to commence a day later. Consequently, the House will convene on Saturday, a day previously designated as a holiday, to accommodate the revised timeline.
