The Odisha Vikash Parishad staged a demonstration near the Raj Bhavan hereon Saturday protesting the Chhattisgarh Government’s barrage and dam projects on the upper catchments of the Mahanadi.
Parishad president Sushant Padhi said the Chhattisgarh Government plans for seven irrigation projects and a barrage on the upper catchments of the Mahanadi. Such a monopoly act by Chhattisgarh is against the interest of Odisha and a violation of a Federal system.
“What is more disappointing is that the Central Water Commission has turned out to be a mute spectator even after knowing about the development much before. These projects will have an adverse impact on the Hirakud Dam. Moreover, the agriculture and farmers livelihoods in 15 districts will also be affected,” said Padhi.
During the protest, the activists, including Parishad secretary Manmath Rout and vice-president Hemant Kumar Hati also burnt an effigy and photographs of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh. later, a four-member team submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister through the Governor.
The body also called upon all political parties, social organisations and intellectuals to intensify the fight to protect the interest of Odisha.