ANGUL: THE district administration has assured villagers, protesting the proposed Rs 500 crore aluminium park here, to look into their demands. The construction of the proposed park has been stopped due to opposition by villagers of Tulasipal, Languliabeda and Kangula. The villagers are demanding fulfilment of their demands, including adequate compensation for their land and employment in the aluminium park.
Collector Anil Kumar Samal held a discussion with the villagers on Thursday to sort out the issues.
The IDCO, having 51 per cent share with Nalco, is setting up the aluminium park at Angul. Though IDCO, with the help of the district administration, has acquired 224 acres of land in the initial phase for setting up the park, villagers of Tulasipal, Languliabeda and Kangula have not allowed officials concerned to conduct soil test and erect boundary wall so far, over their six-point charter of demands.
“We assured the villagers that all their legitimate demands will be fulfilled as per rule. While the issue of land rate will be decided as per the law, there will be no provision of employment against the land acquired. Villagers will get priority in getting work in the park and the district administration will address all their issues,” Samal said.
The issue of pollution by NALCO smelter plant was also discussed. Apparently, Garadkhai village is the worst hit by pollution from the smelter plant. The Collector assured the villagers that he, along with the SP, would assess the situation and if necessary, a high level meeting will be convened on the issue.