Talcher, Odisha : A crucial tripartite meeting was held on Friday evening at the Sub-Collector’s office. It aimed to address the long-standing issues raised by Ghantapada villagers. The discussion focused on the Ghantapada villagers 5 demands. The administration assured that all points would be resolved within the next 15 days.
The meeting, chaired by Sub-Collector Sameer Kumar Jena, witnessed participation from several key figures. These included Talcher MLA Brajakishore Pradhan, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Bharat Sahu, Colliery Police Station IIC Harikrishna Pradhan, Coal Washery authorities, and representatives from Ghantapada Panchayat. The presence of Multiple stakeholders highlighted the significance of addressing Ghantapada villagers 5 demands effectively.
According to the villagers, their five primary demands include:
1️⃣ Loading facilities at the coal washery for trucks from Ghantapada and Tentulei panchayats,
2️⃣ Health insurance and proper medical services for the residents,
3️⃣ Priority employment opportunities for locals,
4️⃣ A stop to the threats of transfer until the plant remains operational, and
5️⃣ Closure of the railway siding until silo loading begins.
Additionally, villagers demanded that Arrangements should be made to transport the tarpaulin by train between the panchayats.. They also requested that local contractors from both panchayats be given priority in all plant-related work.
The meeting saw the presence of several notable figures, including Zilla Parishad member Rita Rani Das. Other attendees were Ghantapada Samiti member Karunakar Sahu, former Block Chairman Kshirod Sahu. Also present were former ZP member Rajkishore Sahu, former Sarpanch Manoj Behera, and various locals. These included Jinesh Sahu, Manoj Sahu, Ashok Das, Jali Dalabehera, Arya Sahu, Birabar Sahu, Bapun Sahu, and Sipun Sahu.
The administration’s assurance has brought relief to the villagers. They had been urging authorities for a fair and prompt solution to their five-point charter.
