State likely to favour Polaki for thermal project.

The State government is likely to finalise Polaki near Narasannapeta in the district for setting up Sumitomo Corporation’s 4000-MW thermal project. The government which identified Palasa-Vajrapukotturu, Polaki-Narasannapeta and Ponduru-Etcherla mandals initially reportedly favoured Polaki since it would have connectivity with the proposed Bhavanapdu port which will facilitate import of coal.

The government’s biggest challenge is to acquire 2,000 acres in the mandal as locals are strongly opposing the project. Despite the agitations from locals, Srikakulam TDP leaders are hopeful to garner the support of the project saying that it will be eco-friendly and beneficial for industrialization and economic activity in the district.

Srikakulam MP Kinjarapu Rammohan told The Hindu that land acquisition would be smooth in the identified mandal since employment creation was not possible without industrialisation.

'Every day, I receive a number of petitions seeking employment for all age groups. Public representatives can help them only when employment opportunities are created with industrialisation. But industries are set up only when sufficient power is available. That is why the government is keen on Sumitomo thermal power project,' said Mr. Rammohan.

'It is true that people have attachment with land since it provides livelihood for them. The government will understand their feelings and offer best package. People need not worry about their future. We will meet them and explain how Sumitomo project would benefit the backward district,' he added.

It is true that people have attachment with land since it provides livelihood for them. The government will understand their feelings and offer best package.

The Hindu