The proposed base camp for the Andhra Pradesh Special Police (APSP) battalion in the district has hit a roadblock, with the police authorities reportedly expressing displeasure over the inordinate delay in identification of suitable land for the project.
The police top-brass reportedly has informed the district authorities that the battalion might be relocated to another district, if the required land is not allocated at the earliest. The government, while deciding the location of the battalion, has given first preference to Srikakulam to ensure fool-proof security for the newly established industries, the upcoming thermal and atomic power plants.
Apart from this, inadequate staff to handle industrial security which has been a concern in the district owing to frequent unrest in the sector has perhaps prompted the government to propose the base camp proposal in here. The industry sector here has witnessed major agitations in the past, including the police firing in Sompeta and Kakarapalli.
According to sources, the Police Department has sought around 250 acres for the base camp, but the revenue authorities have zeroed in only 100 acres near Etcherla so far. But, the police officials are reluctant to take the proposed land owing to high salinity in the water table. Further, weapons are likely to be damaged as the site is very close to sea, they say.
“Around 1,500 APSP constables and police officials can move quickly in all routes, if land is given at a strategic location. Stationing of extra force is need of the hour to curb Maoist activities along the A.P.-Odisha border,” said a senior officer.
The delay in alienation of land for the existing firing range at Naredikonda near Etcherla has become another concern, the officials say. The proposal was mooted in August, 2010, but there has been no follow up action, source said. The police department has sought land for the construction of new police stations at Mandasa, Vangara, Laxmipeta and other areas.
The revenue officials indicated that they were ready to acquire the assigned land, if the Police Department was willing to bear the compensation. The police officials said it was not possible to raise funds since they sought land for the benefit of the society and to cater to the law and order needs.
The battalion might be relocated to another district, if land is not allocated soon, say police
Only 100 acres has been identified so far, while project needs around 250 acres
The battalion might be relocated to another district if land is not allocated soon, say police
