The Chhattisgarh government has restarted a survey for the Bodhghat Multipurpose Project, a dam proposal that could submerge up to 56 villages in the Bastar region.
The project, which has been pending since 1979, aims to provide irrigation, hydropower, drinking water supply, and industrial water supply in the Indravati basin.
However, local tribal groups are opposed to the project, citing concerns over displacement and lack of rehabilitation and resettlement plans.
The revised detailed project report (DPR) estimates that 10,441 hectares of land will be submerged, affecting 36 villages, while broader administrative estimates indicate 56 villages could be completely submerged.
The project's overall cost is estimated at around ₹30,000 crore, and the consultant has been given time till December 31, 2027 to complete the DPR.
The district collector has confirmed that survey instructions have been issued, and teams from the agencies involved are visiting the area continuously.
