Tension has intensified in Kumiapali village of Balangir district as 84 tribal families have refused to vacate their homes despite the Odisha government’s plan to fully fill the Lower Suktel Irrigation Project reservoir this year.
The government has decided to release water from the reservoir for irrigation in September, a move that is expected to submerge the village. However, the affected families have firmly stated that they will not leave their ancestral homes until their long-pending demands are addressed.
Villagers Stand Firm Against Evacuation
The tribal families have made their position clear, saying they will not abandon their village despite the possibility of submergence.
According to local residents, they have refused to relocate until the government fulfills their rehabilitation and compensation-related demands.
Their slogan, “We would rather die than leave our village,” reflects the growing frustration among the affected families.
Lower Suktel Project Enters Crucial Phase
The Lower Suktel Irrigation Project is considered one of the most important irrigation projects in Balangir district, aimed at improving water availability for agriculture across the region.
As part of the project’s implementation, the Odisha government plans to store the reservoir at its full capacity this year and release irrigation water during September.
However, the decision has created uncertainty for families living in villages likely to be submerged.
Rehabilitation Demands Remain Unresolved
Despite repeated notices, the 84 tribal families of Kumiapali have maintained that they will not relocate until their concerns are properly addressed.
Residents claim that rehabilitation and resettlement issues remain unresolved, prompting them to continue their protest against the evacuation process.
Key Highlights
- 84 tribal families refuse to vacate Kumiapali village.
- Village likely to be submerged after the Lower Suktel reservoir is filled.
- Odisha government plans to release irrigation water in September.
- Villagers demand proper rehabilitation before relocation.
- Tension continues in Balangir district over the irrigation project.
Current Situation
Authorities are moving ahead with preparations for the Lower Suktel Irrigation Project, while the affected villagers continue to resist evacuation. The situation remains tense as both sides await further discussions regarding rehabilitation and resettlement.
