Protesters demand closure of factories polluting Tungabhadra, relocation of sponge iron units, rehabilitation package, and scientific health study
KOPPAL
The ongoing protest demanding removal of Baldota MSPL pellet unit in Koppal has completed 189 days at the Municipal Council Grounds. Residents and activists say the plant operating since 2011 near the city is causing heavy pollution and harming public health. They are demanding immediate closure of the unit and protection of local people and livestock. They also want Basapura Lake to be kept clean and made available for drinking water for people and animals.
Protesters have called for sealing of factories polluting the Tungabhadra River and relocation of sponge iron units near Hirebaganal and Allahnagar. They have also demanded a special rehabilitation package for twenty-two affected villages and a scientific study of health and environmental damage. The study has been urged to be conducted by reputed institutions such as AIIMS and IISc for accurate assessment.
The agitation is being led by joint action groups including Koppal District Bachao Andolan and Pasaraya Hitrakshana Vedike along with several local activists and community members present at the site. Locals said the prolonged agitation reflects deep concern over environmental safety and public health in the region and urged the government to take immediate action and implement scientific solutions to control industrial pollution and protect water bodies and ensure sustainable development for future generations in Koppal district.
