Odisha's Water Cess Dues: Industrial Giants Owe Billions

The Odisha government is owed Rs 3797.14 crore in water cess by 42 industrial entities, as reported in the state assembly. These organizations, including government bodies, have outstanding dues as of March, according to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's statement.

Notably, companies extracting water from the Kolab river owe Rs 1509.28 crore, while those sourcing from the Mahanadi owe Rs 962.78 crore. The Brahmani and Nagavali rivers have pending dues of Rs 822.76 crore and Rs 489.08 crore, respectively.

Bhusan Power & Steel Ltd tops the list with a due of Rs 244.10 crore, followed by Ballarpur Industries Ltd with Rs 195.83 crore. Other significant defaulters include Adhunik Metaliks Ltd, Viraj Steel & Energy Limited, and ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India Ltd.

(With inputs from agencies.)