Thermal project evacuees to get good package in Telangana

Khammam: The evacuees of Manuguru Thermal Power Project (MTPP) are the first ones in Telangana to get different compensation packages under the new Land Acquisition Act-2013.

The households of Sambaigudem, Chikkudugunda, Dammakkapet and Sitarampuram villages where 1,031 acres of land is being acquired for the thermal power project would get compensation under the new Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Act.

First, the farmers will be given the rate of the land up to four times than the market value in rural areas.

Under the Act, all affected families are entitled to a house provided they have been residing in the area for five years or more and have been displaced.

They would be offered a one-time financial grant in case they do not accept the house.

Likewise, choice of annuity or employment to all affected families would be given.

“If employment is not forthcoming they are entitled to a one-time grant of Rs 5 lakh per family and as third option they will be provided with an annuity payment of Rs 2,000 per month per family for 20 years, which will be adjusted for inflation,” an official said.

Interestingly, the evacuees will be provided a subsistence allowance under the Act.

All affected families which are displaced from the land acquired will be given a monthly subsistence allowance equivalent to Rs 3,000 per month for a period of one year from the date of award.

Another benefit to be provided to the affected families is imparting training in skill development while being offered employment.

K. Prabhakara Rao, an advocate, said that the government should not deviate with the provisions of the Act while paying compensation.

“The rights of affected families are somewhat protected in the Act,” he observed.