The Moonidih project, initiated in 1964 with Polish collaboration, is one of the deepest underground coal mines in the country. Due to the deep mining zone, this region has abundant water availability. Despite having sufficient water storage (up to 400m depth) in the non-operating mine shafts, the community lacks access to safe, treated drinking water. Residents of villages located near this coal mining region face severe drinking water challenges. In this regard, one survey was conducted by Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, Bokaro, to assess the drinking water challenges faced by communities in and around the Pathardih village of Moonidih coal mining area. The objective was to gather first-hand information on the health and social impact of consuming poor-quality water, with the aim of designing a sustainable, community-oriented water purification project under the CSR activities of BCCL. In order to execute this survey, a questionnaire was designed based on local issues, and a survey was subsequently conducted. The key findings from the survey are summarized below

Water quality and health Concerns

Water was supplied only once every three days, leading to an acute shortage, and during the rainy season, the water turned red in color.

Borewell water showed high iron concentration, making it unsuitable for drinking and causing a metallic taste and staining.

Complaints of itching and skin irritation during bathing were common.

Many villagers reported cases of stomach infections, skin diseases, and hair loss, which they attributed to the poor water quality.

Women expressed concern over using contaminated water for cooking and washing utensils, which further risked their families’ health.

Dependency for drinking and Economic Burden

Villagers had to rely heavily on bottled water (sold at ₹20–₹30l per bottle) or water tankers, often sold at high prices by private contractors.

On average, each household spent ₹300–₹500 per month on drinking water, a significant expense for low-income mining families.

Healthcare costs due to waterborne diseases further strained their finances.

The Rotary Club of Bokaro, in collaboration with Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, successfully organized a Children’s Dental Camp aimed at promoting oral health awareness and providing free dental checkups for underprivileged children. The camp was held at Asha Ki Kiran School on 23 March 2025, and numerous children from nearby schools and communities participated. A team of expert dentists conducted free dental checkups, oral hygiene sessions, and treatment consultations for the children. The initiative focused on educating young minds about the importance of oral hygiene, early cavity detection, and preventive dental care. Special interactive sessions were also held to teach children proper brushing techniques and dietary habits for strong and healthy teeth. Speaking at the event, representatives from the Rotary Club of Bokaro, Mr. Ashok Taneja, and Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato emphasized the need for regular dental checkups and community-driven health initiatives. Parents and teachers appreciated the effort, highlighting how such camps provide crucial healthcare access to children who may not receive regular dental care. The event concluded with the distribution of free dental kits, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, and educational pamphlets on oral hygiene. The organizers expressed their commitment to conducting similar health camps in the future to ensure the well-being of children across Jharkhand. This initiative showcased the power of community service and reinforced the importance of early oral health care in shaping a healthier future for young generations.

Ensuring the health and well-being of children is a collective responsibility, and when organizations come together for this noble cause, the impact is profound. In a remarkable initiative, Rotary Club Bokaro, Muskan Hospital, and Jharkhand Foundation Kendra joined hands to organize a Children’s Health Club, focusing on the overall development and well-being of young minds and bodies. A team of experienced pediatricians and specialists from Muskan Hospital conducted comprehensive health check-ups, including general health screenings, vision tests, dental check-ups, and nutritional assessments. Many parents found this beneficial in understanding their child’s health needs. Expert dietitians provided personalized dietary advice and packets of healthy food to parents for their children and also educated them on the importance of balanced meals, essential nutrients, and ways to prevent malnutrition. A big salute to the Rotary Club, Bokaro, and Muskan Hospital for making this event successful!