Good Governance Illuminates Forest Villages

New Batteries for Solar Panels in 12 Villages of Achanakmar 322 Homes and Streets in 13 Hamlets to Shine Bright with Solar Power

Raipur : In a decisive move to strengthen basic infrastructure in remote tribal areas, the Chhattisgarh government has launched a significant initiative to upgrade solar lighting systems in the forest villages of Achanakmar Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Mungeli district. As part of this effort, new batteries are being installed in the solar panels of 12 villages, replacing the old, inefficient ones that had reduced lighting output and affected night-time visibility.

On Saturday, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Arun Sao flagged off a vehicle loaded with these new batteries from Lormi, marking the start of the battery replacement drive for 13 hamlets spread across villages like Mahamai, Dangania, Tilaidabara, Lamni, Chaparwa, Achanakmar, Manjurha, Katami, Atariya, Bamhni, Rajak, and Surhi.

In recent years, solar lighting has been a vital source of illumination for these dense forest settlements, but worn-out batteries had begun failing to provide adequate light. The resulting darkness at night not only disrupted daily life but also heightened the villagers’ sense of insecurity due to wild animals.

Responding to the villagers’ concerns, raised during the ‘Su-Shasan Tihar’ (Good Governance Festival) held on 19 May at Bijrakhachar forest village in the presence of Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai, the Deputy CM promptly instructed the Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA) to replace the aging batteries.

A total of 112 solar power units had been installed at various times across 25 villages in the ATR region. Of these, 13 hamlets in 12 villages are currently receiving battery upgrades. This will benefit 322 households, ensuring they now receive consistent and sufficient lighting during nighttime hours.

Flagging off the battery transport, Deputy CM Arun Sao stated, “With these new batteries, there will be no darkness in Achanakmar during the monsoon. Adequate lighting at night will also protect villagers from the dangers of wildlife.” He further emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusive development, stating that “the Chhattisgarh government is working with dedication to provide basic amenities even in the remotest villages.”

This initiative not only enhances night-time safety and quality of life for residents but also reflects the state’s broader vision of sustainable rural development through renewable energy solutions. Achanakmar’s electrified hamlets now stand as a beacon of good governance, showing that even the most remote areas can be illuminated with the right political will and public support.