Assam residents protest against proposed cement factory in Sonapur

Sonapur erupted in protest today as residents and local organizations rallied against the construction of a new cement factory by Taj Cement Authority. The proposed factory, with an annual production capacity of 10 lakh units, threatens to devastate the local environment, prompting widespread opposition.

A public hearing organized by the Assam Pollution Control Board was convened to gather feedback from the local community. This hearing comes after weeks of unrest, as the local population felt kept in the dark about the details and potential impact of the Rs 342 crore project. The hearing saw heightened tensions, with an angry crowd surrounding Taj Cement Authority officials before proceedings began.

As the situation escalated, police and CRPF personnel were deployed to manage the unrest. Clashes broke out between protestors and security forces, resulting in violent confrontations involving the use of sharp weapons and physical assaults.

The primary concern of the protestors is the environmental impact of the new factory. Sonapur, known for its lush green landscapes, faces significant ecological risks from industrial development. Activists argue that the factory's construction will lead to irreversible damage to the local ecosystem, affecting both human health and biodiversity.

Local organizations and political parties have thrown their weight behind the protestors, advocating for the preservation of Sonapur's natural beauty and ecological balance. The residents' stand against the cement factory has garnered widespread attention, highlighting the ongoing struggle between industrial development and environmental conservation.