Chhattisgarh: Maoist-affected Sukma village gets electricity for first time, a day before 77th Independence Day | Raipur News – Times of India
With a population of approximately 500 residents, Elmagunda is situated near the borders of Bijapur district and Telangana state. It has historically been under the grip of Left Wing Extremism (LWE), making the electrification achievement even more noteworthy.
Until now, the villagers of Elmagunda had been reliant on solar energy, with many households lacking access to any form of consistent electricity.
According to Sundaraj P, Inspector General of Police for the Bastar range, due to the violent activities of Naxalites in Elmagunda village, the provision of electricity could not be realized until now.
The successful electrification project was a collaborative effort between the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL), District Police, and the Central Police Reserve Force (CRPF).
The journey toward illumination began six months ago when security forces established a police camp in the heart of this highly Naxal-infested area. Today, each household in Elmagunda boasts a functioning electricity connection, bringing forth a wave of elation and contentment among the villagers.
According to Sukma Superintendent of Police Kiran Chawan, proactive measures taken to bring about this transformation yielded results. “After setting up the police camp, we engaged in consistent dialogues with the villagers, including those from Elmagunda, aimed at increasing awareness about Naxalite activities, encouraging participation in village development, and ultimately fostering cooperation in various developmental initiatives,” he stated.
Over the past few months, multiple police and CRPF camps have sprouted across the most Naxal-affected areas, including Elmagunda, Tondamarka, and Bedre. These camps have not only acted as bridges between law enforcement and the local populace but have also paved the way for essential amenities such as roads, electricity, and educational institutions.
As Independence Day 2023 dawns, Elmagunda’s electrification stands as a poignant symbol of progress. The establishment of security camps as Integrated Development Centers in the Bastar Range has proven transformative.
These camps ensure not only security operations but also facilitate vital developmental projects such as road construction, electrification, and establishment of essential service points, schools, childcare centres, and healthcare facilities.
