Nuapada: Tribal people dwelling in Sunabeda sanctuary, which is otherwise known as a fortress of Maoists, were taken aback Sunday when they found Collector Madhusmita Sahoo in person in their area where even lower rung officials are seen once in a blue moon.
There are 55 hamlets in the Sunabeda sanctuary. Basic facilities like electricity, drinking water, communication are still elusive to these people. These residents hardly see any government officer coming to their area with an intention to give them a patient hearing. They are alleging that the block administration is keeping itself away from visiting the area on one or the other pretext.
They were surprised to see the newly appointed Collector in their area, which is located 3000 feet above the sea level.
The Collector who was there to interact with the residents and to understand their sufferings did not have any police security. The red beacon flasher was removed from atop her vehicle too. From Michhapali village, she started her journey to the hamlets through dense forest, covering a distance of 30 kilometres.
On reaching, she went around the Sevashram school, run by the ST/SC Development Department. She had a closer look at the condition of the school building, lying half-constructed for years. She checked upon the attendance and the food given to the students. Thereafter, she inspected some roads constructed on behalf of Chukutia Bhnjia Development Agency (CBDA). She also visited the Anganwadi centre to have firsthand experience as to how the integrated child development scheme is being implemented there.
Then she interacted with some people belonging to the Bhunjia community. Realising no projects in place to enable them to earn their livelihood, she said that she would see how something could be done immediately to give them a permanent source of earning.
On her way back, she visited CBDA’s complex at Michhhapali. She directed the employees to be there and work for the people’s overall development.
The Collector was accompanied by CBDA special officer Bhakabandhu Agasti, assistant engineer Seetakanta Sahu, project manager Surendra Patnaik and engineer Sunil Kumar Argar.
Accolades and appreciation poured in for the Collector for her visit to the area.
PNN