Singrauli: Preparations are underway to erase the name and trace of Morwa, a town in the Singrauli district, as the entire locality faces demolition. All buildings will be razed to facilitate the extraction of vast coal reserves buried beneath the area.
Thousands of residents are being displaced to access these resources, with estimates indicating that around 600 million tonnes of coal lie underground in Morwa.
Morwa has historically contributed significantly to the economic prosperity of the region, featuring a railway station and numerous coal mines. However, the abundance of coal in this area has led to the decision to displace its residents, marking it as potentially the largest urban displacement in Asia.
Rehabilitation plans are being formulated
Rehabilitation plans are being formulated for those affected by this displacement, but the transition is expected to be challenging. Leaving behind homes, childhood memories, and social connections to settle in a new location can be both emotionally and financially taxing.
Over 50,000 people to be displaced
The displacement will affect more than 50,000 people, as approximately 22,000 houses and buildings will be demolished. The process of relocating residents is set to begin soon, with compensation estimated at around Rs 35,000 crore for those displaced. Additionally, Rs 24,000 crore is allocated for the demolition of the structures.
As mining operations are projected to reach within 500 meters of the residential area, Northern Coal Fields Limited (NCL) is responsible for the relocation efforts across the 927-acre township. According to NCL Chairman and Managing Director B. Sairam, discussions have been held regarding all important matters related to the displaced people.
Prakash Kumar Pandey
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