Development process set to begin in Nandigram

NANDIGRAM: The developmental work in this village, which came to a halt following the continuing violence since the last 11 months, has been resumed with the district administration gearing up to execute various schemes in the area.

"The centrally sponsored rural development works are again being executed and work already started in some areas," District Magistrate of East Midnapore, Anup Agarwal, said.

As part of the process, the National Rural Employment Guarantee scheme which ensures 100 days of work, is being initiated while road, water supply, irrigation projects would also begin in full swing," he said.

Development work in the area had stopped earlier this year following agitation by BUPC activists over land acquisition. It was again halted this month when CPI(M) cadres launched attacks to "recapture" the village.

"I am sure the development process, in the backseat so far, will now gather speed and both sides are for it," the DM said after visiting several villages in the area.

He said with panchayat offices closed earlier, there was little activity at the panchayat and block levels, adding regular work will now commence at all the three levels.

Zilla Parishad Sabhadhipati Niranjan Sihi said while dug up roads and damaged bridges were temporarily rebuilt, full restoration work was continuing.