Lower Indra Irrigation Project Office in a Vulnerable Condition: Crumbling Slab and POP Raise Safety Concerns; Drinking Water and Sanitation Issues Reported

Nuapada: The deteriorating condition of the Lower Indra Irrigation Project office has raised concerns over the safety and basic facilities available to officials, employees and members of the public visiting the premises. According to complaints raised by local people, several rooms of the office, including those associated with the Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (LA&R&R) authorities, are reportedly in poor condition. At some places, portions of the ceiling slab are said to be coming off, while POP plaster is also reportedly falling from the ceilings. The condition has triggered concerns that falling portions of the ceiling could cause an accident at any time. Since officials, employees, displaced families and other affected people regularly visit the office for various official purposes, local residents have urged the authorities to inspect the building and take necessary safety measures. People have also expressed concern over the overall condition of the office buildings under the Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation and Resettlement administration. They have sought immediate repair and maintenance of the vulnerable portions of the buildings to ensure the safety of everyone visiting and working there. Another major concern reportedly relates to the availability of drinking water. Despite the issue having been highlighted through news reports earlier, residents allege that adequate action has not yet been taken to resolve the problem. People visiting the office, particularly displaced and project-affected families who come from different areas, are reportedly facing difficulties due to the lack of proper drinking water facilities. The sanitation condition of the toilets has also come under criticism. According to visitors, the toilets are reportedly unclean and foul-smelling, making their use difficult. Regular cleaning and proper sanitation arrangements have therefore been demanded to maintain a hygienic environment on the premises. The Lower Indra Irrigation Project office deals with various matters concerning land acquisition, rehabilitation and resettlement of project-affected and displaced people. Therefore, local residents have stressed the need for a safe office building and basic facilities such as drinking water and clean sanitation facilities. They have urged the administration to conduct an immediate inspection of the office premises, repair the damaged portions of the buildings, ensure safe drinking water and improve sanitation arrangements. The condition of the office has raised questions among displaced and project-affected people over when the long-pending issues will receive the attention of the concerned authorities and when necessary corrective measures will be taken.