Manhole covers stamped with "Made in India" are installed in several major Texas cities, including Houston, Austin, and Fort Worth. The presence of these imported castings has drawn attention after a photo of a Houston sanitary cover was shared online, prompting questions about why local governments purchase infrastructure components from overseas.
Officials in Fort Worth have acknowledged using Indian-made covers for more than two decades, while documented examples also exist in the other two cities.
The use of imported covers is primarily driven by cost savings. In a 2016 report, a Fort Worth city spokesman stated that imported covers were 37% cheaper than domestic alternatives in a 2013 bid process. Fort Worth records show that SIP Industries Private Ltd. was approved as a supplier for 24-inch manhole rings and covers starting in April 2001.
In Austin, infrastructure inspections have revealed a mix of origins, with one location on East 6th Street featuring an inner lid marked "Made in India" surrounded by an outer ring marked "Made in USA." A nearby storm-drain cover at the same intersection is marked "Made in USA," illustrating how both imported and domestic products coexist within the same municipal system.
Federal regulations require these markings to be visible. Under 19 U.S.C. § 1304, most imported goods must identify their country of origin. Specific provisions for municipal castings, including manhole rings, frames, and covers, mandate that the country of origin be permanently marked on the top surface in a location that remains visible after installation.
This legal requirement ensures that the origin of the infrastructure is apparent to the public and inspectors.
