The Andhra Pradesh government has assured farmers who provided land for the Bhogapuram airport project that their compensation claims will be settled through the Visakhapatnam tribunal within a few months.
The Chenab Times has learned that Minister Kondapalli Srinivas and Collector S. Ramsundar Reddy met with the affected farmers and their families to address concerns regarding land acquisition and compensation. The farmers, particularly those whose land was acquired for the airport’s approach road, had been demanding compensation up to ₹1 crore per acre, a significant increase from the ₹48 lakh offered by the authorities.
The Bhogapuram International Airport, planned to be developed as a public-private partnership (PPP) project, has been a significant undertaking for the state, aimed at bolstering regional connectivity and economic development. The project involves the acquisition of agricultural and other lands, leading to a series of negotiations and discussions between the government and landowners.
During the recent meeting, the district officials conveyed that the necessary funds have already been deposited with the Visakhapatnam tribunal. This tribunal is responsible for adjudicating land acquisition compensation cases, ensuring that landowners receive fair market value for their property. The assurance from the minister and collector indicated a commitment to expedite the process, aiming for disbursal within the coming months.
However, the farmers’ representatives expressed continued apprehension, citing previous delays in land compensation settlements. They highlighted that the compensation amount offered for land acquired for the approach road falls considerably short of their expectations and the prevailing market rates. The demand for up to ₹1 crore per acre reflects the substantial increase in land value in the region, influenced by the development of major infrastructure projects like the airport.
The government’s stance, as articulated by Minister Srinivas, is to adhere to the legal framework governing land acquisition and compensation. This framework typically involves determining compensation based on established valuation methods, often including factors like land classification, potential use, and market trends. The Visakhapatnam tribunal plays a crucial role in this process, acting as an impartial body to resolve disputes and finalize compensation amounts.
The Bhogapuram airport project, located near Visakhapatnam, is a key infrastructure initiative intended to serve as a major aviation hub for the northern coastal Andhra region. The project’s successful implementation hinges on the smooth acquisition of land and the satisfactory resolution of compensation issues with the local community. The government faces the challenge of balancing developmental goals with the rights and expectations of the landowners.
Officials stated that the government is committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in the compensation process. They urged the farmers to cooperate with the established procedures, emphasizing that the funds deposited with the tribunal are earmarked for their rightful claims. The dialogue between the government and the farmers is expected to continue, with officials aiming to address the specific concerns raised regarding the valuation of land for the approach road.
The proposed airport is anticipated to stimulate economic activity, create employment opportunities, and enhance tourism in the region. Its strategic location is intended to complement the existing infrastructure and support the state’s industrial growth objectives. The successful resolution of land acquisition issues is therefore paramount to the project’s timely completion and its overall impact on regional development.
The farmers’ families have been assured that their grievances will be heard and addressed within the legal purview. The government’s promise to facilitate settlement through the court-appointed tribunal underscores its intention to follow due process, while also acknowledging the farmers’ long-standing demands for equitable compensation. The coming months will be critical in observing the actual disbursal of funds and the subsequent impact on the farmer community.
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