SIDDIPET: The conditions laid down by the Union government while granting environmental clearance for construction of the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project to safeguard the interests of oustees have become a topic of discussion in officials circles and also among the oustees. Though the state government expressed joy at the announcement, oustees believe that it may find it difficult to fulfil the conditions. If it trashes the Centre’s directions, the only way left for them would be to protest.
The state government is acquiring lands for construction of irrigation projects and setting up industries. Initially, it did not acquire lands under Land Act 2013. Most of the lands were acquired by it as per GO No.123. The GO was challenged by the farmers of Mahubnagar and Siddipet districts and the court set aside the GO. The government then brought in Land Act, 2017 after making some changes to Land Act 2013. It was approved by the central government. Officials then issued land acquisition notifications as per the amended Land Act, 2017.
But officials are deciding on the quantum of compensation after holding discussion with farmers. In regard to Mallanna Sagar and Konda Pochamma reservoirs, officials held discussion with farmers and finalised the land price. But Vemulaghat villagers have held out against the government. Finally, the Centre directed the state to pay compensation as per Land Act 2013 and Vemulaghat oustees believe that the state will comply.
The state government is conducting survey without providing compensation to people who will be losing their homes, lands and other properties. The survey of land records is 90 pc complete and that of properties in 14 villages is progressing and will be completed in three months. RDO M Muthyam Reddy said the survey in Kocchiguttapally under Ranga Naik Sagar reservoir was completed.
Four teams of officials surveyed the village for 15 days and assessed the values of houses, trees, borewells and other properties. Land acquisition notification for the village is likely to be released in a couple of days. Land acquisition under Mallanna Sagar project was completed and award notices were being issued for the remaining. It was the first time that awards were being announced, he claimed. Notices are also being issued to Vemulaghat villagers who registered lands with the government.
Alternative land shown to oustees
Apart from paying a price for the lands, the state government has also to offer resettlement as per Land Act 2013 as the farmers have to leave the village due to submergence. So, Siddipet district officials have shown alternative land to oustees but construction of houses has not begun yet