Odisha Officials Ride Mules To Review Developmental Works In ‘Swabhiman Area’

Odisha government officials seems to have finally found a transport solution to take the government schemes to ‘Swabhiman Aanchal’, the otherwise Naxal infested forgotten areas of south Odisha where lack of development is said to be the key factor contributing to insurgency. Mules!!!

Sounds strange, but on Tuesday, scores of government officials were seen riding mules to reach these remote areas in Malkangiri district, due to lack of motorable roads, to inspect a string of developmental works and left their valuable advices on ways to take those further for the betterment of the tribals.

The government officials included the Deputy Secretary of Panchayati Raj Department Trilochan Mohanty, the PDDRDA Balamukunda Bhuyan, SDPO Anshuman Dwivedy, BDO and Forest Ranger of Chitrakonda.

As per reports, the senior officials carried out inspection of the developmental works at Rajalkonda farm near Chitrakonda and cashew plantation in Badapada Panchayat.

The locals, who by and large remain cut off from the main stream, were eager to put forth their demands on sighting the officials ascending their forbidden land. Their demands included setting up of communication, supply of drinking water and health services, among others.

They also demanded more schools and teachers in their area. Even for online education, the area does not have enough mobile connectivity that could ensure seamless internet.

The Swabhiman Area is notorious for Maoist activities. Because of its inaccessibility, the ultras had been using it as an effective hideout since ages. However, after the construction of Gurupriya bridge, connecting the cut off areas of Chitrakonda with the main land, the government claim to have curtailed insurgent activities significantly.