Villagers demand revision of compensation package at the Idco plastic plant project in Paradip. Telegraph picture

Paradip, Nov. 24: Local residents of Siju and Rangiagada villages stalled the construction work at the plastic park project site on the town outskirts today.

The protesters were demanding revised compensation packages for those who have lost land due to the proposed project. Demand for revision of the rehabilitation and employment package for the displaced families was also on their agenda.

Two days back, the state-run industrial infrastructure development corporation (Idco) had started work at the project site. One of the protesters said they are not opposed to the project. “We are protesting to put forth our demand for revision of the compensation package for people who are being affected by the proposed project,” said Ajay Pradhan of Siju village, whose family got displaced due to the project.

Idco general manager, Sangram Mahapatra said: “The displaced families have been compensated adequately in accordance with the Odisha rehabilitation and resettlement policy. Those who gave away the land have been paid appropriate compensation. The protest is not justified and is detrimental to the larger public interest.”

“I had voluntarily given away two acres of land. The Idco had given me Rs 13.49 lakh per acre as compensation. However, there are instances of government agencies paying higher compensation to the land-losers for other industrial projects in Paradip. Hence, our demand for revised compensation is genuine,” said Pradhan.

Additional superintendent of police Madhabanand Sahu said: “The protest was peaceful and no untoward situation took place. However, to avert possible breach of peace, policemen have been disployed at the proposed project site.”

The earmarked project site, stretched across 200 acres of land, is located at Siju-Rangiagada area on the outskirts of Paradip Port Township. The Idco had earlier acquired the required land for the project. However, people had protested when construction work started.

The total cost of the construction is Rs 40 crore. The park will be implemented under the Union ministry of chemicals and petrochemicals. The Idco will have a stake in the project. First phase of the Idco’s work includes the construction of boundary walls, ground levelling and the laying of the approach road. “Plastic units in the proposed park will manufacture a wide range of products like fibres, reinforced pipes, automobile parts, corrugated sheets, woven sacks, bottles, construction materials and high-density polyethylene-based furniture,” said an Idco official.