Synopsis
Bengaluru, March 4 (NationPress) Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has directed the suspension of operations at the Baldota factory in Koppal district following a delegation of protesters who urged the government to halt its establishment due to environmental concerns.Key Takeaways
- Siddaramaiah instructed to halt factory operations.
- Koppal Parisara Vedike opposes the steel plant.
- Local concerns about poor air quality.
- Support from Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara Swamiji.
- Potential health impacts on the community.
Bengaluru, March 4 (NationPress) A group of demonstrators opposing the Baldota factory in the Koppal district convened with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday, presenting a plea urging the government to disallow the factory's operations.
In response to their request, the Chief Minister instructed the District Commissioner to cease the factory's activities.
Koppal Parisara Vedike, an alliance of over 150 civil society organizations and individuals advocating for environmental conservation, is contesting the proposed establishment of an integrated steel plant by Baldota Group in Koppal district. The bandh called by the Vedike on March 3 garnered widespread support in Koppal city.
During the Global Investors’ Meet, the Baldota Group revealed plans to invest ₹54,000 crore to set up an integrated steel plant under its subsidiary, Baldota Steel and Power Ltd (BSPL). This plant is projected to produce 10.5 million tonnes of steel annually.
The plan for the steel plant has incited significant public outcry, as residents of Koppal taluk are grappling with poor air quality due to numerous sponge iron units in the area. The pollutants and industrial dust have severely impacted the lives of local inhabitants.
Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara Swamiji, a well-known spiritual leader from Koppal Gavi Mutt, has publicly supported the community's protests against the Baldota steel manufacturing facility. He was visibly moved upon witnessing the devastating effects of industrial pollution on the local populace.
Residents assert that the escalating pollution levels have led to birth defects in children, as well as increased instances of asthma and cancer. They emphasize that agricultural lands have become barren.
Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara Swamiji cautioned that if the Baldota factory is allowed to proceed, the region could be transformed into a desolate graveyard.
Ministers and MLAs are facing significant pressure to respond to this issue. Koppal district, situated in north Karnataka, is recognized as one of the most underdeveloped areas in the state, with alarming social and economic indicators raising concerns about its future development.
