Konaseema – Andhra Pradesh: Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) has expressed disappointment over Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu’s recent visit to Ambedkar Konaseema district, criticizing his failure to address the pressing issues faced by the people of the region. Speaking at a press meet, CPM District Convenor Kaarem Venkateswara Rao labeled the visit as “disappointing,” stating that the Chief Minister missed an opportunity to discuss the critical problems affecting the district.
Neglect of flood-affected lankan villages
One of the primary concerns highlighted by Kaarem was the neglect of the lankan villages, which have recently suffered severe damage due to flooding. These villages are reportedly eroding, with residents facing significant hardships. Despite long-standing demands for the construction of a revetment wall to protect these areas, the Chief Minister remained silent on the issue during his visit.
Need for modernization of Godavari embankment and drainage system
Kaarem also emphasized the urgent need to modernize the Godavari embankment, which serves as the main canal and drainage system for the district’s agricultural lands. As Ambedkar Konaseema is predominantly an agricultural district, the modernization of its drainage system is crucial for preventing crop damage due to flooding. However, he noted that the Chief Minister did not address this critical need, which has been repeatedly raised by local farmers and residents.
Concerns over employment guarantee scheme
The CPM further criticized the state government’s approach to the employment guarantee scheme, particularly in relation to the construction of CC roads. According to Kaarem, the government’s focus on increasing the material component of these projects has left laborers out of work, as old machinery is being used instead of providing employment opportunities to local workers. He demanded that the government guarantee employment for labourers by including construction work, such as village link roads, drains, and sewers, under the scheme.
Call for Aaction on inadequate housing and lack of graveyards
Highlighting the district’s housing crisis, Kaarem pointed out that 90 percent of the houses in the district are unfit for living. He called for these homes to be included in the employment guarantee scheme, which would provide decent work for labourers while addressing the housing issues. Also, he urged the government to level graveyards in villages facing severe difficulties due to a lack of proper burial grounds, suggesting that this work also be carried out through the employment guarantee scheme.
The CPM’s demands reflect the deep frustration among the people of Ambedkar Konaseema District, who feel neglected by the state government despite the urgent need for infrastructural improvements and employment opportunities.
