HPCL pipeline project: DC directs officials to furnish all details to villagers within week

HPCL pipeline project: DC directs officials to furnish all details to villagers within week

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, Jan 26, 2014: Deputy Commissioner AB Ibrahim has instructed officials of the HPCL to furnish within a week complete details of the proposed gas pipeline project as well as its pro and cons in view of the confusion and doubts that prevail in the minds of the villagers regarding the project.

He was speaking at a meeting of the affected people convened at his office here on January 25, Saturday to discuss various issues including fixing of value of land to be acquired.

The DC informed that as a continuation another meeting will be held at Belthangady Taluk Office on January 29 at 10 am and at DC office in the city on January 30 at 11.5 am to facilitate the affected people and hear their grievances.

Some of the affected farmers who spoke, demanded 100 per cent compensation and also suggested that additional land must not be purchased. They also urged for maximum safety measures.

Krishnamurthi, Special Land Acquisition Officer, GK Yuvaraj, HPCL Project Manager, Ramesh, Pipeline Manager and others were present.

Walk-out : Several people had arrived well before the meeting could begin at 11 am. As many as 27 had even signed the attendance register. But some others who alleged that their signatures were being obtained even after they asserting that they will not let their land, tore off the  register.
When the DC  did not arrive until 11.15, many of them expressed their anguish saying they cannot be patient anymore and walked out. It was 11.30 by the time the DC arrived. He held a meeting from 12.15 noon till 2 pm with the affected people as well as  officials.

The officials present at the meeting tried to  convince the  people that the gas pipelines are safe and that the nation  had nearly 20,000 km long gas pipeline while HPCL alone had 3000 km long of pipeline.