Odisha Government Evacuates Over 10,000 People Ahead of Crucial Missile Test

In a significant move to ensure public safety, the Odisha government has relocated more than 10,000 residents from Balasore district in anticipation of a scheduled missile test. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has completed preparations for the missile launch at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, with the test set to take place from launch pad number 3.

The Balasore district administration, led by District Collector Ashis Thakare and Superintendent of Police Sagarika Nath, initiated the evacuation at 4 a.m. on Wednesday. Temporary shelters have been arranged in nearby schools, multipurpose cyclone rehabilitation centres, and makeshift tents. The officials have ensured that the displaced residents have access to essential amenities, including drinking water and health services.

Over 10,581 villagers from ten different communities have been affected by the evacuation. Many of these residents, including a significant number of fishermen and farm laborers, have voiced concerns about the adequacy of the compensation being offered. Currently, each adult evacuee receives ₹300 for one day of relocation, while minors receive ₹150 and an additional ₹75 for food. Villagers have expressed dissatisfaction, noting that the compensation amounts have remained unchanged for an extended period.

The local administration has made extensive arrangements to support the displaced individuals. Each temporary camp is staffed with at least ten government officials to assist the evacuees, and 22 police sections, comprising nine personnel each, have been deployed to ensure order and provide support.

Despite these measures, there is palpable resentment among the villagers. Many argue that the compensation is insufficient, particularly for those whose livelihoods are directly impacted by the evacuation, such as fishermen and farm laborers working in areas within the evacuation range.

To address these grievances, a group of villagers submitted a petition to the Additional District Magistrate of Balasore on Monday, seeking a revision of the compensation rates.

The district administration has been proactive in informing the villagers about the evacuation process. Using a public address system, officials instructed residents to vacate their homes by 4 a.m. on Wednesday and remain in the temporary camps until it is safe to return. The authorities have assured the evacuees that the compensation amounts will be credited to their bank accounts once they report to the camps.

This large-scale evacuation underscores the importance and potential impact of the missile test being conducted by the DRDO. As preparations conclude and the countdown to the test begins, the eyes of the nation remain on Balasore, awaiting the successful execution of this critical defence initiative.