Ganderbal, Aug 26: Villagers of Central Kashmir hamlets are up in arms against Border Roads Organization (BRO) for operating a Macadam Plant which according to them is the source of massive pollution.
BRO operated a Macadam Plant at Fraw Haknar Kund area of Kangan here in Ganderbal district.
Locals staged a protest demanding the Macadam Plant be shut down immediately and action be taken against those officials who gave NOC to the Border Roads Organization.
“BRO usually operates this Plant during night hours. All the smoke emanating from the plants enters into villages, creating pollution problems. Villagers have developed several ailments due to excessive pollution,” said Ajaz Ahmed, a local.
The protesters told news agency KNT that the waste material coming out from the plant directly goes into Nallah Sindh and that pollutes the water badly.
“I was offered a bribe for remaining silent on the issue, but I flatly refused. We are suffering immensely and want this plant to be relocated or shut,” said a protester.
Protestors shouted “We want justice!” and demanded a permanent closure of the Plant that is close to residential areas.
When contacted Colonel Mukesh from BRO said this Macadam Plant has been running from past 26 years and there is proper clearance that BRO has obtained from Pollution Control Board and even the Court has permitted us to operate this Plant.
“There are some vested interest elements who are instigating people against BRO,” Colonel Mukesh told KNT.
