Madhya Pradesh Should Ask Gujarat For Rehab Of Sardar Sarovar Oustees: Narmada Bachao Andolan Convener Medha Patkar

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) convener Medha Patkar said here on Monday that the Madhya Pradesh government should demand compensation from the Gujarat government for rehabilitation of Sardar Sarovar dam project oustees in Barwani, Dhar, Alirajpur and Khargone districts.

The dam’s backwaters affected 172 villages

She said, “The Demand of Rs 7000 crore has not been fulfilled for Madhya Pradesh. In 2023, The dam’s backwaters affected 172 villages in MP and the failure to adequately rehabilitate displaced families has severe social and economic consequences.

NWDT stipulated comprehensive rehabilitation plans

The Narmada Water Disputes Tribunal Award (NWDT) stipulated comprehensive rehabilitation plans for those displaced by the Sardar Sarovar Dam.

The Supreme Court has also emphasised that dam height increases must be linked to the completion of relief and rehabilitation measures. So, Madhya Pradesh should ask Gujarat for a comprehensive rehabilitation of those displaced by the Sardar Sarovar Dam project, particularly addressing the concerns of livelihood.”