Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal (EP)

Bantwal, Jan 23: The survey for 400 kv electric transmission lines from Udupi to Kasargod is in progress in Bantwal. The local people who were anxious because of it have planned protests under the aegis of the farmer's association. The first phase of protests as per their decision will be held from Sornadi near Bantwal at the entrance to four villages by erecting banners with various writings on January 26 at 8 am.

State farmers association and Hasiru Sene district president Oswald Fernandes said that the markings made for the survey will be removed and banners with writings that our land is our right, it is not for sale to others, will be erected. Protests will be held with slogans that corporate companies, electricity transmission companies and land agents have no entry in the village.

Speaking in Bantwal press club on Saturday, he said that land is marked illegally after survey without people’s permission via google maps at Panjikallu, Arala B, Kasba and Amtadi.

Local administration also does not have proper information about it and villagers and farmers are worried. “The project will adversely affect agriculture, forest wealth and human life. People in the district should not allow implementation of the project for any reason. Farmer’s association will completely support the campaign. A protest committee is already formed and a legal and pro people campaign is decided. A delegation of farmers will visit the deputy commissioner in the second phase of protests and hold discussions,” he said.

Campaign committee convener Roy Carlo, members Devappa Kulal, K H Khader Arala, Concepta D’Sa and others were present.