Bengaluru Farmers Raise Objections to PRR Civil Tenders Prior to Land Acquisition
Farmers in Bengaluru have voiced strong opposition to the government's plan to float civil tenders for the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) project before acquiring at least 80% of the required land. This development has sparked significant concern among agricultural communities directly impacted by the infrastructure initiative.
Key Demands for Fair Compensation Under Central Law
The protesting farmers have urgently called upon the authorities to provide compensation in strict accordance with the Centre's landmark 2013 land acquisition law. This legislation, known for its emphasis on fair rehabilitation and resettlement, mandates transparent procedures and adequate financial packages for displaced landowners.
Objections center on the premature tendering process, which farmers argue could lead to rushed decisions and inadequate settlements. They emphasize that initiating civil works without securing the majority of land risks exacerbating conflicts and delaying the project further.
Implications for the Peripheral Ring Road Project
The PRR project, aimed at easing traffic congestion in Bengaluru, now faces potential hurdles as farmer resistance grows. Key points of contention include:
- Timing of tenders: Farmers insist that at least 80% land acquisition must precede any tender announcements to ensure proper planning.
- Legal compliance: Demands for adherence to the 2013 law highlight concerns over procedural transparency and equity.
- Community impact: The protests underscore the broader social and economic effects of large-scale infrastructure on rural livelihoods.
This standoff reflects ongoing tensions between urban development goals and the rights of agricultural stakeholders in rapidly expanding metropolitan regions.
