Chadong Village Authority decries
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 01 2016:
The Village Authority (VA) of Chadong village has condemned the indifferent attitude of the State Government towards the Mapithel dam affected villagers of Chadong.
The VA in a statement, said the official announcement made by the Chief Engineer (CE), IFCD, Manipur on July 21 to commission the Mapithel Dam project came as a shock to the villagers as more than 30 land owners of the village have not transferred their land ownership till date.
Decrying the Government's decision, the VA said Chadong villagers have been waiting for a fair settlement of land compensation issue under a proper rehabilitation and resettlement (RR) plan.
The VA further contended that the project proponents/GOM have shown little concern even when massive destruction of moveable and immoveable standing properties and crops took place due to the dam.
Hundreds of houses have been evacuated due to eminent threat of the dam water.
Two churches, two school buildings and a play ground have all been submerged and no compensation has been paid till date.
The VA noted that it is unfair on the part of the State Government to propose the inauguration of the project without making necessary arrangements to provide alternative livelihood means for the affected villagers.
The villagers, the VA stated, will oppose the inauguration of the project tooth and nail unless the State Government take up necessary steps to address the plights of the affected villagers.