What is the water cess for industries operating in Ranchi?

Detailed Legal Analysis

The water cess for industries operating in Ranchi is determined by the provisions under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977. This act empowers the state government to levy a cess on the consumption of water by various industries to promote conservation and efficient use of water resources.

In Ranchi, as per the guidelines provided by the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board (JSPCB), the water cess is categorized based on the nature of the industry and the quantity of water consumed. The cess rates are structured to encourage industries to minimize water usage and adopt sustainable practices.

• Applicable Rates: The cess rates generally vary for different categories of industries, which are as follows:
• For domestic water consumption: ₹2 per kiloliter
• For industrial water consumption (non-polluting): ₹4 per kiloliter
• For industrial water consumption (polluting): ₹6 per kiloliter
• Calculation of Cess: The total cess payable is calculated based on the total water consumed by the industry. Industries must maintain accurate records of water consumption to ensure correct cess payment.
• Registration Requirement: All industries must register with the JSPCB to obtain a water cess registration certificate. This involves:
• Filling out the application form provided by the JSPCB.
• Providing necessary documents, including proof of water consumption and industry registration.
• Paying the prescribed registration fee.
• Payment Schedule: The cess is typically payable quarterly, and industries must submit their payment along with a return form detailing their water consumption.
• Compliance and Inspection: The JSPCB may conduct inspections to verify water consumption and ensure compliance with the cess regulations. Non-compliance may result in penalties or legal action under Section 25 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

Industries are encouraged to adopt water-saving technologies and practices to reduce their cess liability and contribute to environmental sustainability. For any specific queries or detailed guidelines, industries in Ranchi should consult the JSPCB directly or refer to the official website for updated information.