Farmers in Buxar district are protesting against the land acquisition for the Chausa Thermal Power Plant railway line and water pipeline. The main dispute is over compensation rates and the lack of joint surveys before piling work began. This conflict has led to multiple clashes between local villagers and the administration over the last few years.
Why are farmers protesting the railway corridor project?
The farmers, especially from Banarpur village, claim that the Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) is using 2013 minimum price register rates for compensation. They are demanding payments based on current market values. Protesters allege that piling work started without their consent or a proper joint survey of the land.
What were the major incidents during the protests?
The protests have seen several tense moments since October 2022. On January 11, 2023, clashes broke out after police raids in Banarpur, leading to vehicle arson and injuries. In March 2024, farmers blocked the plant’s main gate, resulting in a police lathi-charge and the arrest of about 30 people. The Patna High Court intervened in January 2024, ordering the administration to monitor the site and prevent protests in active work zones.
What is the current status of the project?
| Date | Event/Update |
|---|---|
| December 2025 | DM Sahila inspected the plant and railway corridor, emphasizing local employment and environmental safety. |
| May 7, 2026 | SIA report for the rail corridor updated on Buxar district website. |
| May 14, 2026 | Rehabilitation and Resettlement plan updated on Buxar district website. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main demand of the farmers in Buxar?
Farmers are demanding compensation based on current market rates instead of the 2013 register rates used by SJVN for the railway corridor and pipeline.
Which agency is building the Chausa Thermal Power Plant?
The plant is being constructed by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN), which is a joint venture of the Central Government and the Himachal Pradesh Government.