Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) submitted a memorandum to the Chairman of the Central Water Commission (CWC) in New Delhi, seeking reassessment of the submergence levels and revision of the Polavaram Project to prevent any adverse impact on Odisha.
The party has expressed deep concern over the potential submergence of large areas in Odisha’s Malkangiri district due to the Project implemented by Andhra Pradesh, which could adversely affect the livelihoods of thousands of tribal people, particularly those from the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
The party demanded that the CWC issue a stop-work order to the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the Union Government until Odisha’s demands are addressed. The BJD also called for a consultation process with all concerned Chief Ministers through the CWC, prioritizing the safety and well-being of tribal communities in Malkangiri through proper surveys and identification of areas likely to be submerged.
The memorandum highlighted that despite expert recommendations and Odisha’s concerns regarding the safety of tribal populations, the CWC has refused to conduct a fresh backwater study for the revised design flood. The BJD pointed out the Supreme Court’s observation in 2022 that the expansion of the project would require additional technical reports and environmental clearances.
The party expressed apprehension over the Centre’s recent sanction of ₹17,936 crores for the project’s completion, disregarding Odisha’s concerns. The memorandum emphasized that significant changes to the project’s design flood discharge capacity have raised concerns among affected populations in Malkangiri, who risk losing their lands and homes.
The party concluded that the project has been implemented without proper consultation with Odisha, and public hearings and consultation processes have been inordinately delayed. The party urged the CWC to take proactive steps to address the concerns of the affected people and ensure their safety and livelihood.
