Talcher, Odisha : A public hearing on 25th September in Ghantapada village discussed objections to the Talcher Y Railway Project, the proposed Talcher-Angul new line with Y connection. During the meeting, villagers raised strong opposition, citing threats to their livelihoods and local resources.
The proposed railway line will cross the main Chacheri pond in Ghantapada village. This pond, being large, historic, and well-maintained, serves the community for multiple purposes, including bathing, fish farming, agriculture, religious rituals, cultural ceremonies, and as a source of drinking water. Villagers expressed concern that the railway project will severely damage the pond, reduce its water capacity, and disrupt essential daily activities.
The railway line will also cut through important village roads, creating serious traffic disruptions. Currently, residents already face difficulties due to existing railway crossings while performing funeral rites, and the new project could worsen these hardships, causing longer delays and inconveniences.
In the past, villagers had provided 500 acres of land for various development works. At present, they face a shortage of land for additional development or grazing purposes. Ghantapada village, being part of the industrial belt, experiences a steady increase in population daily, putting further pressure on local resources. Considering all these factors, the villagers unanimously opposed the railway project and suggested relocating it to an alternative site outside the village to protect their environment and daily life.
The village committee formally submitted a proposal recommending the relocation of the project. They argued that proper planning and alternate alignment could prevent damage to ponds, farmland, and infrastructure, while still allowing the railway to progress without harming the community. The villagers continue to demand that authorities take their objections seriously and take immediate action to protect local resources, cultural heritage, and livelihoods.
