IAS Rajesh Toppo makes Surprise Risky Visit to Maoist Stronghold For Review WRD Project’s In Tribal Hamlet

IAS Rajesh Toppo makes Surprise Risky Visit to Maoist Stronghold For Review WRD Project’s In Tribal Hamlet

Rajesh Sukumar Toppo, Secretary of the Water Resources Department in Chhattisgarh, has made history by becoming the first Secretary of Water Resources Department to visit the remote Vananchal Mardapal area in the hot temperature of (46.8°C) during a heatwave to review the ongoing projects of the Water Resources Department.

The Tribal inhabitants of a remote Maoist stronghold in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar Jagdalpur district had a surprise guest when the WRD Secretary Rajesh Sukumar Toppo decided to review the ongoing projects of department to get first-hand knowledge of the ground situation.

During his visit, Rajesh Sukumar Toppo reviewed the status of regional water resources and emphasized the importance of water management and irrigation sector expansion in rivers and drains.

Key Highlights of the Visit:

• Meeting with Water Resources Minister: Secretary WRD Rajesh Sukumar Toppo met with Minister Kedar Kashyap to discuss the departmental action plan, focusing on maintaining existing irrigation schemes and constructing new ones.
• Inspection of Kurushnar Diversion Scheme: Secretary WRD Rajesh Sukumar Toppo inspected the scheme and discussed its progress and possibilities with local authorities.
• Farmer Engagement: Secretary WRD Rajesh Sukumar Toppo met with local farmers, listened to their water-related problems, and assured them of the State Government’s commitment to solving these issues ¹.

Impact and Future Plans:

• Practical Action Plan: Secretary WRD Rajesh Sukumar Toppo directed officers to prepare a practical and effective action plan considering regional geographical and social conditions.
• Irrigation Schemes: The department plans to construct new irrigation schemes and complete the process within a specified timeframe.
• Detailed Project Reports: Preparation of DPRs for new schemes is underway, ensuring administrative and technical approval.

Secretary WRD Rajesh Sukumar Toppo’s visit highlights the government’s focus on water resource management and irrigation development in tribal-dominated areas like Bastar. His leadership has positioned Chhattisgarh as a model state in water conservation, with initiatives like the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari campaign garnering national recognition.