Ganjam District: A Mixed Legacy of Development and Neglect under BJD Rule

 

Ganjam District: A Mixed Legacy of Development and Neglect under BJD Rule

Ganjam district, often considered the stronghold of former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has witnessed limited progress despite 24 years of BJD governance. Despite some development projects, the district continues to grapple with significant issues like distress migration and unfinished infrastructure projects.

Ganjam District: A Mixed Legacy of Development and Neglect under BJD Rule

Neglected Infrastructure and Projects

Two prominent examples illustrate the district's infrastructural neglect:

1. Ghodahad Dam: Once a vital irrigation source for thousands of hectares, the Ghodahad Dam now holds a mere 2% of its water capacity due to poor maintenance. The dam's deterioration has left local farmers struggling with inadequate water supply for their fields.

2. Chelligada Irrigation Project: Launched in 2003 with a budget of ₹25 crore, this ambitious project remains incomplete over two decades later. This delay has left vast agricultural lands without sufficient irrigation, severely impacting local farming communities.

Unmet Promises and Employment Challenges

The BJD's tenure has also seen several unfulfilled promises:

• Janibili Mega Drinking Water Project: Initiated at a cost of ₹500 crore, the project aimed to provide clean drinking water to Berhampur. However, residents still face water scarcity, highlighting the project's ineffectiveness.

• Tata Land Project: In 1996, 3,700 acres were allocated to Tata for a major project. Despite the passage of nearly three decades, the land remains undeveloped, contributing nothing to the local economy.

The lack of industrial development and job opportunities has forced many young people to migrate to other states for employment. Small factories and companies within the district have shut down, exacerbating the employment crisis.

Local Voices and Frustrations

Local residents express deep frustration over these issues. Lalatendu Pradhan from Digapahandi laments the neglect of crucial water resources, while Asheshnath Mishra criticizes the slow progress of the Chelligada project, fearing wasted public funds. Saroj Gouda and Dwarikanath Maharana, both from Khallikote, voice concerns over the lack of job opportunities and the ineffectiveness of government schemes, which they argue exist only on paper.

BJD's Response and Opposition's Vision

The BJD, however, defends its track record. Dr. Ramesh Chandra Chyau Patnaik, Ganjam District BJD President, claims significant advancements in infrastructure, including road construction and drinking water facilities. He points to the development of a large park in Bhanjanagar as evidence of progress.

Contrastingly, opposition leaders, including Berhampur MLA K. Anil Kumar, promise to address the district's longstanding issues. They criticize the BJD's performance and pledge to complete pending projects and introduce new initiatives focused on real development, including plans for water parks.

Conclusion

Ganjam's story under BJD rule is one of mixed outcomes. While some infrastructural and developmental efforts are acknowledged, the district continues to suffer from critical shortcomings in project completion and employment opportunities. The upcoming political landscape will likely hinge on addressing these persistent issues and fulfilling long-overdue promises to the residents of Ganjam.