ISSN (Print) - 0012-9976 | ISSN (Online) - 2349-8846

Betwa SharmaSubscribe to Betwa Sharma

Death Knell in the Narmada Valley

Vol. 41, Issue No. 51, 23 Dec, 2006
Commentary
Betwa Sharma
For over two decades now, rehabilitation of those displaced by the Indira Sagar dam continues to remain a difficult exercise. At the heart of the flawed acquisition process lies a basic conflict of interest: the very beneficiary of the process, Narmada Hydro-Development Corporation, is itself responsible for deciding matters of compensation for affected villagers.

Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Vol. 41, Issue No. 17, 29 Apr, 2006
Commentary
Betwa Sharma
A new generation is now suffering the aftermath of the Bhopal gas tragedy. Fourteen 'bastis' have been identified as being affected by groundwater pollution. However, no correlation appears to be established between the health conditions of the residents and water contamination, as various surveys and estimates are not conclusive and agencies are bickering over evidence. A health survey by a national agency of repute must be conducted to establish the basis for further action while the acute shortage of water itself is tackled.

Oustees of Indira Sagar Dam

Vol. 40, Issue No. 01, 01 Jan, 2005
Commentary
Betwa Sharma
The town of Harsud in Madhya Pradesh, facing submergence under the Narmada Valley Project, was evacuated almost overnight. But although the authorities had 20 years to prepare for the resettlement of the oustees, when the deadline approached there was no rehabilitation plan in place. Inadequate compensation, loss of livelihood and lack of alternative employment portend a grim future for the displaced people.
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