Posco land acquisition continues

"Demolition of betel vines has almost reached the final stage and only 150 more vines will be demolished for which the people have given their consent. The process is continuing peacefully for the second day today," district Collector SK Mallick said.

According to sources the district administration has so far razed 12 betel vine yards and paid Rs 15 lakh as compensation to the land owners. 

"The collector says that demolition of betel vines has reached the final stage. We also want to say the district administration that our fight has since reached the final stage and we will do whatever is possible to oust Posco come what may", said a leader of Posco Pratirodh Sangram Samiti, spearheading the agitation against the mega steel project.

He said womenfolk in the area would chase the police force from the area while male would prevent the betel vines and trees being felled.

Meanwhile, leaders of eight political parties are scheduled to visit the area to extend support to the project opponents.