Villagers demand relocation of ferro-silicon plant in Arunachal’s Ruksin amid health fears

Protests intensified in the Ruksin sub-division of Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district as residents demanded the immediate relocation of a ferro-silicon factory operating at the Niglok Industrial Growth Centre.

 

Villagers from several nearby settlements have accused M/s Aether Alloys LLP of causing severe environmental damage and posing serious health risks through emissions from its manufacturing unit. They alleged that smoke and dust released during production have led to worsening air quality, contamination of water sources and damage to standing crops.

 

Residents claimed that respiratory problems, skin irritations and other ailments have become common, particularly among children and elderly people. Farmers in the area said declining agricultural output has affected livelihoods in what is largely an agrarian belt.

 

Community leaders said repeated representations to the authorities have not resulted in any concrete action. They maintained that industrial activity must comply with environmental safeguards and should not compromise public health.

 

Protesters have called on the district administration and the state government to order an immediate environmental impact assessment and consider shifting the plant away from densely populated areas. They also sought stricter monitoring of pollution control measures.

 

Demonstrations continued on February 15, with villagers warning that the agitation would be intensified if their demands were not addressed promptly.