Bijapur (Chhattisgarh) [India], March 6 (HBTV): In a significant step towards development and security, the Chhattisgarh government has introduced a bus service in seven panchayats, including Pamed, the state's last village, breaking years of naxal dominance in the region.
The move reflects the effectiveness of security operations and the government's commitment to integrating Bijapur, one of the worst insurgency-hit districts, into the mainstream. This region, often in the news for IED blasts, encounters, and ambushes, is now witnessing a transformational change.
According to officials, Pamed, which has seen several naxal-related incidents in the past, was previously inaccessible from the district headquarters, forcing residents to travel via Telangana. After nearly 50 years, a direct passenger bus service has finally been introduced.
In the past four months, development efforts have accelerated, leading to the expansion of roads, security camps, and essential amenities. The launch of the bus service is considered a major step in connecting villagers to the district headquarters, eliminating the need for a lengthy detour through Telangana.
Officials noted that while a road existed in the area five decades ago, it remained unused as vehicles did not operate. Over time, naxals took control of the region, isolating it from government initiatives. However, with new development projects, security camps, and infrastructure expansion, the area is gradually being reintegrated.
‘It is a matter of great satisfaction that Pamed, which was previously cut off from Bijapur, is now accessible. Earlier, people had to travel nearly 200 km extra via Telangana. With the establishment of security camps, Pamed is now connected to Bijapur directly for the first time. Several villages under the Niyad Nellanaar scheme are also on this route, ensuring better connectivity,’ said Bijapur Collector Sambit Mishra.
Bijapur Superintendent of Police (SP) Jitendra Kumar Yadav highlighted that connectivity with Pamed was available before 2000 but was later lost due to naxal influence. ‘With the establishment of security camps, roads are being constructed, public transport has resumed, and essential services like drinking water and electricity are being ensured for the first time in 30 years,’ he said.
The new bus service is expected to benefit more than 21 villages across seven panchayats. ‘Earlier, villagers had to cover nearly 250 km via Telangana to reach the district headquarters. Now, they have direct connectivity,’ the SP added.
Officials noted that the area between Tarrem, Pamed, and Jagargunda police stations was once a stronghold of naxal battalions. PLGA Battalion-1, the naxal military wing’s striking force, operated here, making it difficult for security forces to penetrate. ‘With the establishment of camps, the banned outfit is losing ground and shifting elsewhere,’ SP Yadav stated.
The launch of public transport is also expected to boost local markets. ‘People are delighted with the bus service and are using it actively,’ said bus driver Mayandra Chapdi, adding that 70-80 passengers use the service regularly.
A local resident, Lokesh Yadav, expressed his happiness: ‘There is great enthusiasm among villagers. This service is a huge relief for us. The area was deprived of basic facilities due to its remoteness and naxal presence. Now, commuting is much easier.’
(ANI)