#Odisha

BJD Team Reports Concerns Over Polavaram Project’s Impact on Odisha

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has raised significant concerns regarding the Polavaram project in Andhra Pradesh, particularly its potential repercussions for the tribal communities in Malkangiri district of Odisha. A recent budgetary allocation by the central government and a commitment to complete the project by February 2026 have intensified fears among local tribal populations.

A fact-finding team from the BJD, led by former minister Atanu S Nayak, submitted a detailed report to party president Naveen Patnaik after an on-the-ground assessment of Motu and Padia tehsils in Malkangiri district. The team’s visit aimed to gauge the possible impacts of the Polavaram project on the region.

The BJD has expressed alarm over the projected outcomes of the project, citing potential displacement and adverse effects on local ecosystems and livelihoods. The report highlights concerns from tribal communities who worry about the project’s impact on their land and resources.

The Polavaram project, a major irrigation and flood control endeavor in Andhra Pradesh, has been a point of contention between states, with Odisha’s leadership voicing apprehensions about its implementation and consequences for neighboring areas.

In response to the findings, Naveen Patnaik has called for urgent discussions with central authorities to address these concerns and ensure the protection of affected communities and their environment. The BJD’s stance underscores a growing apprehension about inter-state projects and their cross-border ramifications, particularly for vulnerable populations.

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