Time to debate for whom the mega development projects

The state has now announced its plans to acquire land for Chennai’s second airport at Parandur, overlooking villagers’ concern. Can the government just take over the land without taking the consent of the affected families? Does the law regulate government acquisition of land? If not, is there anything a layman could do to ensure that the government keeps the promise once he/she signs on the dotted line?

—Raajhendharan, Kottavakkam, Kancheepuram

For whom the development projects is a debate we should start without delay. Governments and parties running it always think of mega projects and love them. As a judge of the Bombay High Court once said, “Concrete is clear proof of corruption”. We can’t give up our resistance. Remember that a similar plan for a green field airport at Sriperumbudur earlier was given up due to people’s resistance. The 2013 land acquisition Act provides for approval by local people. But they have dispensed with environment clearance and public hearings. The murmuring voices of public anguish had their reflection in the government announcing 3.5 times more compensation than the market rate.