Maoists stall development work in Orissa's Nandapur block

Nandapur, Feb 18 (ANI): Several development projects have been stalled in Nandapur block in Orissa's Koraput District as labourers dread being attacked by the Maoists at isolated sites.

Villagers here complained that the incomplete work is creating problems for them, as they are unable to travel to the city due to poor condition of the road.

"Koraput region is known as Maoist area. Most of the developmental work that is started is left in between because of the fear of Maoists. But Maoists are least bothered of development. Because of Maoist fear, the labourers are reluctant from completing the work," said Ameer Beberta, a resident.

Half laid roads and partially constructed buildings are a common sight in the villages.

Killing incident of villagers by Maoists aggravates the fear among the locals.

Villagers added they have appealed the administration to complete the work, but no one pays any heed.

"From last three years the construction work of this road has come to a halt creating problems for us. Thousands of people from five Panchayats are dependent on this road but due to the poor condition of the road, no public vehicle is commuting to this region, as a result we are unable to take the ailing villagers to the city hospital. We have been demanding a proper road for this area from a long time but all in vain. We are deprived of every facility due to these poor roads," said Sonu Muduli, another resident.

Maoists have attacked many schools, hospitals, and government institutions and this offensive has severely affected children's education and has brought normal life to a standstill.

According to analysts, the Maoists oppose all development activities such as the construction of roads, schools, hospitals, drip irrigation and drinking water facilities.ontractors are killed, schools are torched, electric poles are pulled down and projects, which could lead to development, are halted.

They fear that their support base will diminish once development comes to the area.

The Maoist insurgency has gripped nearly one-third of the country, spreading into the interiors of 20 states of the country. (ANI)