Fly Ash Sparks Political Storm in Jharsuguda as BJD, BJP Blame Each Other Over NH-49 Project Impact
Jharsuguda : The political temperature in Jharsuguda has once again soared, with ash politics taking center stage. A war of words has erupted between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) following allegations surrounding the improper disposal of fly ash from National Highway-49 construction work, which reportedly caused damage to agricultural land during recent heavy rains.
BJD Fires First Salvo; BJP Hits Back:
The controversy reignited after BJD leaders slammed the government over the environmental and agricultural fallout from unregulated ash disposal. During a press conference at a private Hotel, former MLA Deepali Das launched a scathing attack on the state administration, accusing it of encouraging ash transportation and failing to keep its pre-election promises.
“MLA Tankadhar Tripathy, who once promised to stop ash dumping in Jharsuguda, is now actively supporting the same practice. What happened to the commitment of banning ash transportation?” questioned Deepali.
She alleged that ash is being extensively used in road construction across the district without adhering to environmental safety norms or the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). “The monsoon rains in June turned this negligence into a disaster. Farmlands and water bodies are now covered with 2 to 3 feet of ash in many areas,” she added.
“People Misled, Farmers Suffer”:
Deepali further claimed that the ash has severely affected soil fertility and local agriculture. She held the National Highways Authority responsible for not covering the ash with soil as mandated, leading to its spread during rainfall.
“The livelihoods of farmers have been destroyed. Many families displaced by the rains have taken shelter in schools and panchayat buildings. The government must provide compensation and remove the ash from their land immediately,” she demanded.
Accompanying her at the press meet were BJD District President Harish Ganatra, senior leader Ravi Singh, Kirmira Block President Chudamani Sahu, and other prominent local leaders.
MLA Tankadhar Tripathy Responds: “Clean Your Own House First”
Responding to the allegations, BJP MLA Tankadhar Tripathy launched a counteroffensive, questioning Deepali Das’s own track record on the issue.
“Who dumped ashes in Panchpada and Kapumal? Who silenced the protesters when entire areas like Jamera, Badamal, and Katikela were buried under fly ash?” he asked.
Tripathy cited Deepali’s own election affidavit, claiming that the companies and vehicles associated with her were involved in illegal ash transportation. “Now that the government has authorized the regulated use of ash for NH-49 construction, she’s objecting. Is it concern for the land, or frustration over losing a business opportunity?” he asked pointedly.
He went on to say, “There’s no moral ground for those who once polluted Jharsuguda to question today’s efforts. Instead of empty criticism, she should offer constructive solutions for Jharsuguda’s development—we’re open to accepting them.”
A Heated Debate with No End in Sight:
As both parties continue to trade barbs, the issue of ash disposal remains unresolved and politically charged. While the BJD accuses the ruling party of environmental negligence and betrayal of public trust, the BJP counters with allegations of past misconduct and hypocrisy.
