Indravati Reservoir: Development is a daydream for displaced people of 16 villages

The displacement caused by Indravati Reservoir in Kalahandi district has left communities in a continuous struggle, with residents cut off from essential services and development. Despite numerous government initiatives and changes in leadership, the circumstances of these isolated villages allegedly remain dire.

Also Read: OTV Impact: BDO walks 4km to remote village after woman delivers baby on road in Gajapati

Situated amidst forests, mountains, and an expansive water body, life here is largely dependent on boats. An OTV news team recently visited the area to document the living conditions of these displaced residents, particularly around the Podapadar panchayat in Thuamul Rampur block — an area comprised of 16 villages severed by the reservoir.

Plights of the displaced people

One such village, Ghutrukhal, houses about 200 inhabitants who remain untouched by development. Movement and daily activities are dictated by the availability of boats. The region has seen no essential infrastructures, such as schools and healthcare facilities, rendering education and health services inaccessible. With no schools or Anganwadi centres in sight, children allegedly remain unaware of formal education.

As per reports, vital amenities like electricity and roads are still out of reach for many. Over 30 lives have been lost in dangerous boat crossings as residents embark on perilous journeys to access basic government services, such as rice distribution at the panchayat office, informed sources.

Attempts to bring about change, like the proposed bridge between the D. Cheptaghat to K. Cheptaghat, were halted due to planning flaws and have since been abandoned.

While the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds have assisted in initiating some relief, providing 10 motorized boats, much remains to be done. Without a clear pathway to sustained development, the displaced communities of Indravati Reservoir continue to hope for a transformative future.

Must Read: 7 months on, public toilets remain inaccessible in Odisha’s Cuttack

“Government officials have not visited the villages for several years. Despite running from pillar to post, our demand for basic amenities is not being met,” some locals rued.