PM for speedy implementation of forest rights Act

The socio-economic survey in the site area of the Posco's proposed 12-million tonne steel plant near Paradip was today suspended indefinitely, pending an elaborate drive by the district administration to convince the local villagers about the objectives of the survey.

The Orissa government on Tuesday started the socio-economic surveys for the controversial project. But it faced severe opposition from the local villagers who protested they had not been informed properly about the survey activities. They had also demanded rehabilitation packages before the survey was conducted in the area.

Meanwhile, Jagatsinghpur district officials have decided to launch a drive from tomorrow to convince the villagers about the objective of the survey.

However, with Posco officials staying away from entering the villages in the present situation, the villagers are unlikely to get any assurance on rehabilitation package.

However, members of the United Action Committee (UAC), formed by representatives of the project-affected people, will accompany the district officials in this programme, which is being conducted for the first time by the administration in the area.

Sources said the survey in the area would resume after convincing the villagers on the survey activities.