Jharsuguda, Odisha: The operations of Vedanta Alumina have turned into a curse for the residents of Jharsuguda. Locals allege that the continuous ash emission and pollution from the plant have made life unbearable. The growing public outrage against Vedanta is now visibly intensifying day by day.
Villagers from Dalki Panchayat have approached the district administration. They are protesting the movement of Vedanta’s heavy vehicles through their village roads. According to complaints, a road from Vedanta Gate No. 2 to Kumudapali Nala was constructed under the MGNREGA scheme by Dalki Gram Panchayat. However, in complete violation of rules, hundreds of heavy trucks are now using this rural road daily to transport ash from the company.
As a result, people from Dalki, Jhakarpada, and Kumudapali villages are suffering from severe pollution-related diseases. Their farmlands have also been extensively damaged due to contamination. In protest against Vedanta’s arbitrary activities, villagers staged a road blockade on the 15th of this month. Upon receiving the information, company officials reached the spot along with police and administrative officers. They promised to resolve the issue within four days.
Later, on the 17th, the villagers submitted a written complaint to the District Collector and SP. However, even after ten days, Vedanta has not held any discussion with the villagers or taken steps to resolve the issue. Locals further allege that the company has neglected local employment opportunities. They also claim the overall development of nearby villages has been ignored.
Angered by the company’s inaction, the villagers have issued a stern warning. If the problem is not resolved by October 29, they will block the road from October 30. This will prevent Vedanta’s heavy vehicles from operating in the area.
