In anticipation of an upcoming missile test scheduled for Wednesday, the Balasore district administration has undertaken significant efforts to ensure the safety of local residents. Over 10,000 people from 10 villages within a 3.5 km radius of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur have been temporarily relocated to nearby shelter centers, confirmed officials today.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has completed all necessary preparations at the launch pad number 3 of ITR for the missile test, a source from the defence sector disclosed.
Revenue officers detailed the precautionary measures, citing a preparatory meeting led by Collector Ashis Thakare and Superintendent of Police Sagarika Nath. “Residents are urged to vacate their homes by 4 am on Wednesday and remain in designated camps until further notice post-launch,” emphasized a district revenue officer.
To facilitate this large-scale evacuation, arrangements have been made in nearby schools, multipurpose cyclone rehabilitation centers, and temporary tent shelters. Each site is equipped with essential amenities including drinking water facilities and medical support, ensuring the well-being of the temporarily displaced population.
However, amidst these arrangements, discontent has surfaced among villagers regarding the compensation provided. Critics argue that the amount allocated—Rs 300 per adult and Rs 150 per minor, with an additional Rs 75 for food per day—remains insufficient, unchanged over an extended period. Fishermen and farm labourers, whose livelihoods are affected by the evacuation, are particularly vocal about the need for fair compensation.
In response to these concerns, a petition has been submitted to the Additional District Magistrate (ADM), urging a review of the compensation policy to better reflect the hardships faced by those impacted.
The district administration has assured that compensation will be disbursed promptly upon residents reporting to the camps. Meanwhile, a dedicated team of government officials and police personnel has been deployed to assist residents throughout their stay in the temporary shelters.
As the scheduled missile test approaches, authorities remain committed to maintaining public safety while addressing the grievances of the affected communities.
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