Genco ash pond work begins amidst tension

The Genco has acquired 300 acres of land in six villages for constructing residential colonies for the employees working in the power projects. But contrary to the purpose for which the land was acquired, the officialsA prepared plans for the construction of ash pond Nellore: The Genco officials laid foundation stone for ash pond at Nelaturu village in Muttukuru mandal of Nellore district despite opposition from the parties and local leaders. Meanwhile, the locals staged a protest during the foundation laying ceremony on Friday. The villagers, who blocked the road, in protest against the construction of ash pond were arrested by the police. The Genco has acquired 300 acres of land in six villages for constructing residential colonies for the employees working in the power projects. But contrary to the purpose for which land was acquired the officials prepared plans for the construction of ash pond. The displaced people from Nelaturu, Painampuram, Parakvidpudi, Mamidipudi, Musnuripalem and Nelaturipalem people staged protests over the move to construct ash pond. The village anchayats passed resolutions against the construction of ash ponds. Muttukuru Mandal Parishat also passed a resolution against the construction of ash pond. The Genco officials are aware of the opposition to the work and mobilised a large contingent of police with the support of district administration. The police arrested 70 persons who obstructed the construction works. The CPI, CPM and TDP condemned the high handedness of officials. Muttukuru CI Venkateshwalu said that cases were filed on those who tried to obstruct the construction works.