The demand for carving out 75 new blocks from districts in Kosi, Seemanchal and Munger regions is gain- ing momentum.

Public representatives, grassroot-level social activists and officials have requested the rural development department to upgrade a few areas as new blocks.

Former chief minister Lalu Prasad during his tenure had created many new districts and blocks to bring the administration closer to the “neglected” mass living in inaccessible and remote areas.

According to the activists, poor villagers would be relieved of unnecessary travel to block headquarters to get government work done if new blocks are created.

Former MP Taslimuddin, Rajya Sabha member Tariq Anwar, and many others have joined the cry for new blocks in their respective areas. In some places, the district magistrates, too, have recommended new blocks. The rural development department has sought the consent of the district officials concerned in some other places.

In 1994, Taslimuddin had first demanded creation of Lohiyanagar Udahat and Mahalgaon as new blocks from Jokihat in Araria district. He, along with members of Prakhand Nirman Sangharsha Samiti, an organisation fighting for creating new blocks, has also urged for two more new blocks — Kushirgaon and Madanpur — in Araria. Paithgana, Arlaha and Kaliyaganj are also in the list for upgrade.

Former state minister Ramjee Rishidev has requested for Basaite as new block, while many have urged for upgrade of Ranugram-Simraha, Phoolkaha, Bathnaha, Mirdoul, Chainpur and Tarabari as separate blocks in Araria district.

Tariq Anwar and MLA Tarakishore Prasad have urged for upgrade of Abadpur and Balia Baloun as blocks in Katihar district.