Paradip, May 6: The land acquisition process for the proposed Posco steel project went off smoothly today even as Jagatsinghpur district administration suspended its plans to construct a boundary wall in the area following protests.

Twelve betel vineyards were dismantled in Gobindpur village. “Compensation of Rs 15.35 lakh was paid against the demolition of 12 betel vineyards in the Gobindpur forest area.

The owners voluntarily parted with their plots and gave a written undertaking for dismantling the vineyards. Later, they received compensation,” said special land acquisition officer Sarat Kumar Purohit.

The Dhinkia-Gobindpur borderline under the project boundary was also demarcated. A section of people opposed the digging of a trench on the demarcated line.

“People opposed the boundary wall construction as it would stop free movement. It would also cause an obstruction for cattle that ventured into forest areas for grazing. As land acquisition is not yet complete, there is no justification of erecting the boundary wall. The administration should patiently wait for completion of land acquisition. Payment of compensation and implementation of rehabilitation package should also be done fast,” said protester Ranjan Bardhan.

Eight new betel vines that were not eligible for compensation were dismantled. The appeal of the owners of new betel vineyards for compensation was turned down. About 30 more new vineyards are set for demolition soon.

About 266 fruit-bearing trees were felled today while Rs 1.34 lakh compensation was paid to the owners under the Odisha Horticulture Rules. “We are optimistic that the officials will be able to acquire 200 acres within a week as the landowners are extending full cooperation. We are not bothered about protests being organised by those from Patana and Dhinkia. The government has excluded these villages from the project boundary. So, the protests defy logic,” said Jagatsinghpur collector Satya Kumar Mallick.

Officials said the eight million tonne steel plant required 2,700 acres while the Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation transferred 1,703 acres to Posco-India. The corporation was already in possession of over 400 acres after transferring 1,703 acres to Posco. They were hopeful about acquiring 600 acres more.