DHANBAD: The central government is planning to develop Belgaria in Jharkhand’s Dhanbad into a model township, as stated by Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt on Friday.
This township is being developed by the Jharia Rehabilitation and Development Authority (JRDA) to resettle families currently living in danger zones affected by fire and subsidence from underground coal mining.
During the inauguration of the JRDA’s new administrative building in Belgaria Township, Dutt mentioned that essential services such as water, electricity, security, and job opportunities will be provided to the residents under the project.
He took the time to meet with displaced families, hear their concerns, and evaluate the existing facilities in the colony.
After discussions, he assured residents that all necessary amenities will soon be available in Belgaria Township, similar to other Dhanbad colonies.
He announced plans for Belgaria to be developed into a model residential area with modern facilities.
As per an official survey, more than 140,000 families are still living in hazardous zones, with only around 4,000 having been relocated to safer areas so far.
Dutt, alongside Coal India Limited (CIL) Chairman Sanoj Kumar Jha and others, participated in tree planting activities within the township.
During his two-day visit to Dhanbad, the secretary will also tour the Jharia fire-affected areas and hold a review meeting with Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) officials and JRDA representatives concerning the relocation efforts for families affected by fire and subsidence.
