Beyond the Red Zone: Chhattisgarh's Gogunda finds a new path

Sukma (Chhattisgarh): A sea change is visible in Gogunda, an area of Chhattisgarh's Sukma district that was once considered a stronghold of Maoist activities.

Roads, electricity, schools and Anganwadi centres have made life easier for local residents, although security challenges in the region have not completely disappeared.

Gogunda was once known for Maoist violence and fear.

The presence of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and Maoist dumps made normal life extremely difficult for villagers.

The area lacked basic infrastructure, including roads and electricity, while schools and Anganwadi centres remained largely inaccessible. Security personnel often had to reach the region by helicopter.

The situation began to change after the 74th Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) established a camp in the area.

After the establishment of the camp, road construction began and electricity was brought to the region.

Schools and Anganwadi centres were also made accessible to local communities.

With security arrangements strengthened, fear of Maoist groups among villagers has gradually declined.

Increased interaction between security forces and residents has also contributed to a growing sense of confidence in the area.

However, significant challenges remain in Gogunda.

Vehicles still cannot reach the camp, and even motorcycles cannot make their way to the top.

Personnel and villagers have to climb the hill to reach the camp.

The difficult terrain, coupled with the continuing threat of IEDs, remains a major challenge for security forces operating in the region.

An IANS team recently visited the area for the first time to report on security operations and the changes taking place on the ground.

CRPF personnel working in the high-risk zone encouraged and welcomed the media team during the visit.

According to the personnel, the threat has not completely disappeared.

Incidents involving the recovery of IEDs continue to be reported regularly.

Police and security sources believe that a significant number of explosive devices may still be buried across the wider region.

A senior CRPF officer told IANS that the condition of basic infrastructure in the area was extremely poor in 2014, particularly in terms of roads, schools and healthcare facilities.

"Today, development is taking place rapidly due to the efforts of security forces and joint teams," the officer said, adding that local people were increasingly coming forward to assist the forces and cooperate with them.

The arrival of a security camp, roads, electricity and educational facilities in Gogunda highlights how security and development can work together to bring lasting change to areas affected by Maoist violence.

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