Baipariguda, Construction work is underway for the Minakshi Hydro Power Project in the Dhandrapol Reserve Forest. Locals have alleged that although three projects are being handled under a single agreement, the company, after securing government approval for the first project, has already proceeded with the second and third projects without proper clearance. Due to this, residents of Badudipara, Atalguda, and Malipada fear that their villages may be submerged.
The project is also feared to damage the region’s natural environment and result in the cutting down of many valuable trees. However, a major concern is that despite legal provisions mandating replantation of trees after deforestation, this has not been followed. Locals have also alleged that the company is employing people from outside the region instead of providing jobs to local youth.
Based on these allegations, Jeypore Sub-Collector Ms. Akbaram Sasya Reddy had stated that a proper investigation would be conducted and necessary actions would be taken.
A public hearing to address complaints regarding the Minakshi Hydro Power Project near Tentuligumma was scheduled for Tuesday at 10 AM near the Amba Gandali BSF Camp. Complainants from Pujariput, Atalguda, and Kundhikhar village were supposed to attend the hearing.
However, since the Chaiti festival is ongoing in the district, affected villagers met the Jeypore Sub-Collector today and submitted a memorandum demanding the cancellation of the April 8th hearing. Responding to their concerns, Sub-Collector Ms. Akbaram Sasya Reddy assured that a new date for the public hearing will be announced soon after due consideration.