Chhattisgarh bets big on Bastar revival with Bodhghat project

Raipur

In a bold move to accelerate development in Chhattisgarh’s tribal heartland, the Vishnu Deo Sai-led government has announced the revival of the long-stalled Bodhghat irrigation project on the Indravati River in Dantewada. The ₹49,000 crore initiative is expected to transform agriculture, power generation, and employment in Dantewada, Bijapur, and Sukma districts; some of the most underdeveloped parts of the state.

Describing it as a historic opportunity for the region, Sai’s administration has emphasized that the project will irrigate nearly 3.5 lakh hectares and provide much-needed electricity to remote areas. Bhairamgarh Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Pradeep Kumar Dongre told ANI, Restarting this scheme will be a welcome step because it will irrigate vast stretches in Sukma, Bijapur, and Dantewada, while also producing electricity.

Dongre assured farmers that the government would offer compensation if their land or homes fall within the submergence zone. There is no need to oppose the project. The benefits will be long-term and substantial, he added.

Local entrepreneurs have echoed this sentiment. Narendra Nag, a businessman from the area, said the project could be a game changer if implemented with integrity. This will bring electricity, boost fisheries, and open up job opportunities. Local businesses and citizens will definitely benefit, he said.

The project is seen as a major infrastructural and political bet by the Sai government, aiming to change Bastar’s developmental narrative while balancing ecological and social concerns.