Concerned over the growing civic and welfare challenges in Ghatsila subdivision, former MLA and senior leader Kunal Sarangi met Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi to demand immediate redressal of key public grievances, including defunct solar drinking water schemes, delays in pension payments, and the lack of Anganwadi centres in several areas.
During the meeting, Sarangi highlighted that dozens of solar-powered drinking water schemes have stopped functioning in various panchayats, including Badamara, Malkundi, Kuchiasholi (Chakulia block) and Murakata (Gudabandha block). Despite the severe water crisis, repair work has been stalled due to a lack of clear operational guidelines and confusion over fund allocation between the Drinking Water and Sanitation Department and Panchayat representatives. As a result, villagers are struggling to access safe drinking water.
“The lack of coordination and clarity is worsening the suffering of the people. A concrete mechanism needs to be put in place for timely repairs,” Sarangi stated.
He also drew attention to the absence of Anganwadi centres in several areas. In Harijan Basti (Musabani Township), there is no Anganwadi building, affecting dozens of children. Similarly, children in Maddabandh and Misrikata villages of Jugitopa Panchayat (Chakulia block) are unable to attend pre-school education and nutrition services due to the non-availability of functional centres.
Another serious issue raised was the pending pension payments. Hundreds of senior citizens and widows across Ghatsila’s blocks have not received their monthly pensions for the last three to four months, causing hardship among vulnerable communities.
Sarangi also mentioned that villagers in Darishol (Khedua Panchayat, Baharagora block) are yet to benefit from key central schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and the Ujjwala Yojana, reflecting administrative gaps in welfare implementation.
In response, Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi assured prompt action. “A meeting will be held within the next one to two days with all Block Development Officers to initiate repair of broken water schemes on a war footing,” he said. The DC added that funds for old-age and widow pensions up to May have been received and disbursed. “June’s pension is delayed due to a technical glitch, but will be processed soon,” he confirmed.
On the issue of Anganwadi infrastructure, the DC said that a comprehensive review will be conducted shortly, and decisions will be taken to ensure that children in underserved areas get access to early childhood services.