Tue Nov 12 17:31:22 UTC 2024: ## Tribal Communities in Anakapalli Demand Electricity, Fear Wild Animals
**VISAKHAPATNAM, November 12, 2024:** Tribal communities in the Cheemalapadu panchayat of Anakapalli district have staged a protest demanding immediate electricity supply to their hilltop villages. The residents of Sompuram Bandhalu, Jeelugalova and Pasuvalbandha, fear for their safety due to the lack of lighting, making them vulnerable to wild animals and snakes after dark.
The protest took the form of a 2-kilometer torch rally, with the residents expressing their frustration over the government’s unfulfilled promises. According to K. Govinda Rao, a member of the CPI(M) district secretariat, the government had pledged to provide electricity under the PM Janman scheme back in September. Despite surveys and estimates being prepared by EPDCL officials, no action has been taken since.
The tribal communities, consisting of 20 families and 80 people living on Somulammakonda, are unable to leave their homes after nightfall due to the fear of wildlife. They have accused the authorities of ignoring their pleas for help.
Mr. Govinda Rao has issued an ultimatum, warning that if electricity is not supplied by November 27th, another protest will be held at the Collector’s office in Anakapalli. This protest will involve torches and ‘dolis’, demonstrating their escalating desperation.
First Piper 