Andhra Pradesh

SEZ-displaced in for a better deal

Kakinada: People affected by the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) are in for a better package than the one announced under the Resettlement and Rehabilitation policy of the government, according to sources in the SEZ management. The major aspect in the package is the payment of compensation in cash not only for the house but also to the site on which it is built. While those losing the house will be provided a house site measuring 150 sq. metres each in the rehabilitation colony, more benefits are being offered to families below the poverty line.

They will be provided a house similar to the model unit constructed in the rehabilitation colony free of cost. This apart, one of the members of the displaced families will be provided employment. Each family will be paid Rs.5,000 towards transportation cost to enable them to move household goods to the rehabilitation colony. In case, the house owner is losing a cattle shed, Rs. 3,000 will be paid to them for its reconstruction at the new place.

Sources claim that the rehabilitation colony will be a model in all aspects with the provision of modern infrastructure such as roads, drainage system, electricity supply and drinking water.

These facilities are common to both agricultural and non-agricultural labourers in case they are getting displaced from their houses. The only difference is that they will be paid agricultural wage for 625 days at the rate of Rs.106 per day. The total amount of Rs.66,250 towards wages will be paid in at a time.

Agricultural and non-agricultural labourers not possessing any house will be given Rs.66,250 towards 625 days agricultural wages.

Besides the common benefits, an additional compensation of Rs. 25,000 will be paid to businessmen and artisans to enable them to reconstruct their sheds and shops at the new place. They will also be paid Rs. 66,250 towards 625 days wages.

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu