Meenakshi Hydro Power Project Faces Scam Allegations in Odisha
Koraput, Odisha: April 9 — A major controversy has erupted over Meenakshi Hydro Power Limited’s hydroelectric project in Tentuligumma, Koraput district, following allegations of irregularities and non-transparency.
The company, while executing the project in Odisha, has reportedly maintained all critical documents, including the dam’s sketch map, in its Hyderabad office—bypassing local and forest authorities.
The issue surfaced after residents from 19 affected villages raised objections, accusing the company of violating forest laws, evading public consent, and failing to ensure proper rehabilitation. In response, Koraput District Collector W. Kirti Wasan has ordered a high-level investigation into the matter.
The probe will be led by Jaipur Deputy Collector Akavaram Sasya Reddy, who will inspect the project site.
Despite a week having passed since the investigation began, forest officials from the Gupteswar Range in Jaipur and the Mathili Range in Malkangiri have not received any project-related documents from the company.
This has intensified suspicions about the project’s legitimacy.
Locals allege that Meenakshi Hydro conducted a village council in an unrelated revenue village, ignoring the voices of affected communities. Three villages and the historic Dhabaleeshwar temple are reportedly at risk of submergence. Demanding compensation and a proper village council, the residents have submitted a memorandum to Baipariguda officials and warned of escalating protests if their demands are not addressed.
The District Collector confirmed that the company has been directed to produce all relevant documentation. He assured that the documents will be verified in the presence of higher authorities from the Electricity Department once company representatives arrive from Hyderabad.
The controversy has cast a shadow over the project, first signed in 2004-05, with its latest phase receiving Stage-II clearance in 2022. The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine the project’s future trajectory.
