Indus Valley Times

Addanki Iswar R.

Malkangiri,8th August,2024:-The Biju Janata Dal has reignited its concern over the long-delayed Polavaram project in Andhra Pradesh. A team of BJD leaders, under the direction of party supremo and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, visited the affected areas to assess the situation and compile a detailed report.

The Polavaram project, which is now more than 70% complete, has caused alarm among residents of Malkangiri district, who fear the consequences once the project is fully operational. The NDA governments in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh, along with the central government, have committed to completing the project, with funds allocated in the current budget.

However, concerns remain high in the region, particularly in Odisha’s Motu, Allama, and Binayakpur and nearby areas, which are at risk of being submerged once the project is completed. The BJD team, led by former minister Atanu Sabyasachi Naik, includes key party leaders such as Bhrugu Baxipatra, Jhina Hikaka, Ramesh Majhi, Ishwar Panigrahri, and Raghuram Padal,visited various affected areas in Malkangiri, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh and gathered their opinions and assessed the geographical and technical aspects of the project.

The Polavaram project, initiated during the Congress government’s tenure at the center, is designated as a national project. Despite strong opposition from the Odisha and Chhattisgarh governments, the Andhra Pradesh government, with the full cooperation of the central government, is pushing for its completion.

As the project nears completion, anxiety is growing among locals who fear the potential flooding and displacement. The BJD government in Odisha has consistently opposed the project since its inception, arguing that it will create severe problems for various districts, particularly Malkangiri. Despite the urgency, no village assemblies have been conducted in Odisha, and proper surveys remain incomplete, leaving many residents uncertain about their future.

The BJD team’s visit aims to understand the ground realities and advocate for the interests of the local population. Residents are demanding proper resettlement and compensation, expressing frustration that their situation has remained unchanged despite repeated government promises. The BJD’s assessment will be crucial in determining the next steps to address the concerns of the affected communities.