Koraput: Jeypore MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati held a press conference regarding the restoration of Jagannath Sagar in Jeypore. He announced that Rs 9.25 crore has been sanctioned for the restoration work.
He stated that a tender process will be initiated within 10 days. During the previous government, restoration work on Jagannath Sagar was undertaken through the “Ama Pokhari Yojana” and “Mukta Yojana” by the Jeypore Municipal Administration, with an allocated budget of Rs14.86 crore. Under the Mukta Yojana, 85 self-help groups (SHGs) of women were engaged in desilting and soil excavation, with each group handling Rs 15 lakh worth of work, without a tendering process. The project was directly assigned to the SHGs.
However, during the restoration process, a major political change occurred in the state, leading to an incomplete restoration. So far, ₹5.83 crore has been spent on the project. The issue has now sparked political tensions in Jeypore. Instead of focusing on the collective development of Jagannath Sagar, political parties are accusing each other over desilting and excavation.
Jagannath Sagar holds historical significance for Jeypore, and its development is the responsibility of all citizens. Transparency is essential in the restoration process. On February 28, the Jagannath Sagar Trust organized a massive protest and public demonstration, demanding the completion of the restoration. Leaders from all parties and intellectuals from Jeypore participated in the movement.
During today’s press conference, MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati stated that corruption will not be tolerated and those responsible must face punishment. The state government has formed an independent three-member committee to investigate the matter. Following their report, the government has approved Rs 9.25 crore for the restoration work, which will now proceed through a proper tender process.
Three independent officials from different departments will supervise the project, and discussions are ongoing with the district administration. He also mentioned that 25 hectares of land around the Sagar have been identified, and illegal encroachments will be removed soon to facilitate restoration work.