Berhampur:Cuddled within the mountainous and forested terrain of Rayagada district, the Puttasing Gram Panchayat now shines brighter with the glow of electricity. The arrival of electricity has brought a new dawn to the Saura people, shining on the path to progress and prosperity
"Even though our area is mountainous and forested, electricity has reached our village. There is no fear at night. Due to the availability of electricity, our children can study when the sun goes down. Before any discontinuity of power, the electricity department announces it in the village. We get informed much before the power cut. Even during the rainy season, the repair work is promptly done, and we get a reliable power supply on time," says Binod Sabar from the Lanjia Saura tribe-dominated Rejingtal village under Puttasing Gram Panchayat.
Rejingtal is renowned for its unique tribal wall painting known as "idital," which received a GI tag last year. The walls of every house are painted beautifully in this unique style, featuring red walls with white paintings. These designs are not colourful but are unique and distinct in the entire globe. Almost every household in this village engages in creating these intricate and meaningful paintings. As a distinct art form in the world, its preservation is crucial. These thematic paintings signify nature; inspired by the elements of nature; Also, tribal minds are reflected in the form of art, here. With electricity, artisans can now work on their craft even at night, attracting tourists from various regions and ensuring a steady source of livelihood. The lights that reach them not only illuminate their homes but also their paths to a brighter future.
The Lanjia Saura, an ancient tribal community residing in hilly areas, is among the 13 designated Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of Odisha. This community is distinguished by its unique language, culture, and eco-philosophy, deeply embedded in their daily lives. The Puttasing area of Gunupur block in Rayagada district is home to this community, which lives a simple life centered around traditional agriculture. The Gram Panchayat of Puttasing comprises seven villages: Lade, Puttasing, Barei, Gundurugan, Rejingtal, Manengulu, and Kumbulusing.
Lanjia Saura is also a language spoken by the Saura community. The language is unique not only for its distinct phonetic and grammatical structures but also for its own script, known as the "Saura script," which was developed to promote literacy and preserve the community's cultural heritage. The script is characterized by its pictorial symbols, and it plays a vital role in the identity and cultural practices of the Saura people.
Despite the remote and rugged terrain, electricity has reached every tribal home. TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL) has been instrumental in bringing this essential service to the Lanjia Saura tribe. Through their persistent efforts, the villages are now illuminated, and TPSODL ensures reliable electricity services by regularly maintaining the power infrastructure in and around Puttasing. Puttasing Gram Panchayat, with 28 small settlements spread across seven mouzas, is home to over 12,000 people. Local residents depend on Puttasing for their market needs. The availability of electricity has significantly improved their living conditions.
Asia Sabar, the Sarpanch of Puttasing Gram Panchayat, says, "We don't have any major problems related to electricity. The lineman and the TPSODL team are working with impunity all the time. Despite being a remote area, they are regularly maintaining cable lines and power infrastructure.
I would like to thank them for their tireless work. Electrification has also transformed our lives, enabling better socio-economic opportunities. There is no darkness now; markets operate even after sunset, allowing us to communicate and move around without obstruction or fear. Earlier, the fear of wild animals and reptiles restricted us from moving freely. But now, we can proudly say that we have overcome that. In the morning, we focus on agriculture, and in the evening, we paint ‘idital’ paintings under the bright light while sitting at home."
Reaching Puttasing, located 25 km from Gunupur city, requires navigating winding hilly roads. The Lanjia Saura villages are scattered throughout the dense forests and high-altitude areas. TPSODL has established a Fuse Call Center (FCC) in 2021 in Puttasing, employing members of the Lanjia Saura community who are familiar with the local area and language, facilitating seamless communication with local consumers. The Fuse Call Centre works towards seamless supply of power to the area.
Magushir Gomango, an elderly resident of Rejingtal village, expresses his gratitude by saying, "In the darkness of this forest, light is essential for us. Whether it's dry or rainy season, if any problem occurs, TPSODL's linemen immediately reach and repair it. So, most of the time, we get electricity services."
Mr. Amit Kumar Garg, CEO of TPSODL says, "At TPSODL, our mission is to ensure that every corner of Southern Odisha has access to reliable electricity. We are dedicated to overcoming any challenges to provide quality power services. Our commitment to the Lanjia Saura tribe in Puttasing is a testament to our constant pursuit of excellence in serving our communities."
Ashram Gomango, a lineman working in Puttasing, describes, "Providing electricity in such a challenging area is no easy task. Though power supply has reached the area before, but maintenance in such rugged terrain is strenuous task. It is quite difficult carrying ladders and electrical equipment through high-altitude areas in hills and forests, especially during storms and rain. Yet, our team remains committed to deliver electricity services to the people. As TPSODL prioritizes electrical safety, before doing any work, we follow safety rules and use safety equipment."
