The New Indian Express ·
Odisha: Protest to halt land transfer to Andhra for Neradi barrage
BERHAMPUR: Opposition is mounting in Rayagada district over the proposed transfer of 106 acre of government land in Odisha to Andhra Pradesh for the Neradi barrage project on the Vansadhara river.
The Dandakaranya Development Mahamancha staged a silent satyagraha in front of the Gunupur sub-collector’s office on Monday, demanding an immediate halt to the land transfer and protection of Odisha’s water rights. The organisation expressed concern that the proposed barrage could lead to backflow, waterlogging and increased flood risks in the Vansadhara basin, potentially affecting agriculture and livelihoods in downstream areas.
Gunupur MLA Satyajit Gamang, who joined the protest, also demanded that the proposed mega irrigation project at Panidangar in the upper reaches of the Gudari area be made operational without further delay.
