The effects of the low pressure formed in the Bay of Bengal are now felt in the Bastar division. The Meteorological Department has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas on September 27th and 28th.
Continuous rain accompanied by thunderstorms over the past week has increased people's concerns. Rivers and streams are already high, and a heavy downpour could lead to flood-like conditions. Meanwhile, rain has always hampered Dussehra celebrations, but this time, the warning of heavy rain threatens to dampen the festival's spirit. Markets in the city are beginning to be decorated, and villagers are also arriving, but the weather conditions may dampen the joy of the festival.
Relief supplies sent for flood victims rotted
Relief supplies arrived in Dantewada after the August 26th flood, but due to negligence, thousands of packets were wasted. The Gujarat government and the BJP organization had sent five containers containing rations, including potatoes and onions. Due to lack of timely distribution and the rain, the supplies rotted in the warehouse. Now they are being thrown away, and cattle are falling ill after eating them. The Congress party has made this a political issue, accusing the BJP of exploiting the poor. The BJP, meanwhile, explained that the goods were damaged due to the delay in the arrival of trucks. Flood victims expressed displeasure that aid did not arrive on time.
Tight Security Arrangements for Dussehra
The atmosphere in Jagdalpur is vibrant with the celebrations of Sharadiya Navratri and Bastar Dussehra. Several traditional rituals are being performed, including the Phool Rath Parikrama, which has drawn thousands of people. The police have made elaborate arrangements to control the crowds and maintain security. Blockades have been put in place at city entrances, plainclothes personnel have been deployed at intersections, and CCTV surveillance has been installed. Over 500 police personnel are on security duty. Women police have been given special responsibilities, and the national highway is being patrolled continuously. Police officials say that no negligence will be tolerated in view of the large crowds.
Government servants instructed to complete e-KYC by September 30th
The Directorate of Treasury and Accounts has issued instructions to all government servants to update their profiles in the Personnel Property Module. This has made e-KYC mandatory. The Bastar District Treasury has issued a letter to all departments, requesting that every employee's e-KYC be completed by September 30th. This process can be done through the Employee Corner app or portal. Officials have been warned that liability will be fixed if the deadline is not met. The administration believes that e-KYC will make employee profiling transparent and strengthen the digital system.
Fight for Iron Ore Rights
The people of the district are angry about the DMF funds. It is alleged that despite clear government orders, the district's share of funds is being given to Kanker. Vast iron ore reserves exist in the Raoghat and Anjrel hills, which are mined on Narayanpur land, but the benefits are being distributed to Kanker. The Narayanpur Collector has been continuously corresponding with the department, but to no avail. Locals say that dust from mining is affecting Narayanpur, yet funds for development work are not available. This is being described as injustice to the public and Kanker's stubbornness.
Crossing a Flooded Drain at Risk
The culvert built over the Bodra Drain in the district has become a danger for villagers. The drain overflows with even a little rain, forcing villagers to risk their lives to cross it. Due to the closure of the Narayanpur-Kondagaon main road, this is the only alternative route. Schoolchildren, employees, and patients all travel on this route. Continuous rains block traffic for weeks, causing inconvenience to the people. Villagers have demanded the administration construct a higher culvert to ensure safe movement.
The Army Conducts Mock Drill for Flood Protection
The Disaster Management Team of the Army conducted a mock drill as part of preparations to deal with floods in the district. At Karli and Bhairamband ponds, divers and rescue workers practiced rescuing stranded villagers using boats and life jackets. Demonstrations were conducted on evacuating victims to safety, providing health checks, and administering medications. The mock drill also practiced the use of siren systems, microphone guidance, and relief center arrangements. The administration stated that such exercises will enable rapid response in times of disaster.
PG College Auditorium in Ruins
The district's largest PG College auditorium has now fallen into disrepair. The 500-seater hall, built in 1990, was constructed with poor quality materials, resulting in the building becoming dilapidated within 10 years. Since 2019, it has been completely closed and in ruins. Students and organizations are demanding the construction of a new auditorium. The principal has drawn attention by sending a letter to the MLA and the Public Works Department. The ABVP has demanded an investigation into the irregularities in the construction and action against those responsible. Students say the building could collapse at any time, so immediate construction is essential.
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