The cutting of water supply to the prestigious Butibori industrial estate has its genesis in a decision taken by the state government last year.
In a bid to reduce its outgo and augment resources, the state has hit the industry, some would say, below the belt, by increasing the costs. It quadrupled water tariff in September 2001.
The industry cried foul and various arms of the government got together in a brain storming session to find a solution to the issue. The consensus was that the cess be increased by three times instead of four.
The industry was still unsatisfied and, for once, united in taking on the state. It continued to pay the tax according to the old rate. However, as it was not a customer or purchaser for the irrigation department, it didn