Arunachal Pradesh Water Supply Bill 2015 passed by voice vote

The Assembly today passed the Arunachal Pradesh Water Supply Bill, 2015 by voice vote in the amended form.
The bill, tabled in the House by Public Heath Engineering and Water Supply minister Takam Pario on July 7 last, was aimed at regulating water supply including levy of reasonable tariff on consumption of piped water supply in the state by replacing the Arunachal Pradesh Water Supply Act, 2000.
Taking part in the discussion members suggested for incorporating the provision of protection of catchment areas of water source, besides review of hiked water supply tariff.
Responding to various suggestions from the members, Pario said the existing water supply Act was devoid of many provisions and the present bill, reflecting the responsibilities of the consumers, would notify water sources.

Replying to various queries from the members, Chief Minister Nabam Tuki said "There is no dearth of water in the state, but to supply of safe drinking water is the responsibility of the government."
He urged members to support the bill, while announcing to reduce the charge of new water connection from proposed Rs 5,000 to Rs 3,000 and the monthly water charge for one to three bedroom dwelling units from Rs 200 to Rs 150.

"As Arunachal Assembly is known for maintaining highest democratic system, our actions should prove it," he said.
Leader of Opposition Tamiyo Taga raised questions as to why a bill was introduced, instead of amending the existing one and wondered whether the new bill would be a "magic one."

He suggested for rain water harvesting and ban in jhum practice to protect water catchment areas by making the deputy commissioners of all districts responsible to check it.
Senior BJP leader Japu Deru termed the bill as against the interest of the poor, saying the cent per cent hike in water charges would affect the common people.
Congress member Nikh Kamin stressed on revenue generation to end dependency on Centre and suggested for a separate head for water supply to check revenue leakage.
While P D Sona of the Congress suggested that the government adopt "zero tolerance" to ensure supply of safe drinking water and stressed on accountability of the department, BJP member Tage Taki suggested measuring the major water sources of the state and said they would dry up in future if the catchment areas were not protected.

Congress MLA Gabriel D Wangsu said with the level of underground water decreasing, most of the districts in the state were facing water scarcity and suggested for introducing metering system for collecting water supply bills.
The House passed the bill in amended form before Speaker adjourned it for the day.