Six years have passed since the authorities took over farmland to build the Bhadradri Thermal Power Station (BTPS) in Manuguru, Kothagudem district, but eligible individuals have not received promised compensation or job opportunities. Initially, promises were made to provide compensation and employment to those affected by the land acquisition, but many are still waiting for what was assured to them.
Under the Land Acquisition Act of 2013, displaced farmers were supposed to receive Rs 5.5 lakhs in compensation and have their children employed if they were over 18 years old. While some farmers did receive compensation and job opportunities, there are still over a thousand individuals who have not been provided with what was promised to them.
Approximately 1,100 acres of farmland in Manuguru Pinapaka mandals were acquired for the construction of BTPS. However, the distribution of compensation was halted due to various reasons such as environmental clearances and plant work breakdowns. Allegations have been made that some officials favored ineligible individuals over deserving ones when it came to compensation distribution.
Many affected farmers have been struggling to receive what they are owed and have even approached authorities like the RDO and High Court for assistance. The new Collector in the district is being urged to address this issue and ensure that justice is served to those who lost their land for the construction of the power station.
Farmers like P Satyvathi and K Veeraghavulu have shared their stories of losing land and not receiving compensation, despite promises made by authorities. The Tahsildar Raghava Reddy has informed higher officials about the situation, indicating that efforts are being made to address the concerns raised by the affected farmers.
