Question : WATER TARIFF POLICY

(a) whether the Government proposes to link nine ongoing major irrigation projects with water tariff policy as reported in ‘Asian Age’ dated April 4, 2005;

(b) if so, the details and the reasons therefor;

(c) whether there will be any increase in water tariff in various States as a result thereof;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the steps being taken by the Government to safeguard the interests of consumers?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES(SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN YADAV)

(a) The nine ongoing major irrigation projects referred to in the news item are already receiving assistance under Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme. The Ministry of Water Resources has no specific proposal to link these projects with water tariff policy.

(b) to (e) Do not arise.