Koppal’s Pollution Crisis: Farmers Demand Factory Shutdown

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s move to suspend Baldota Steel & Power Ltd’s ₹54,000-crore steel plant near Koppal has brought relief to locals. However, residents and farmers continue to protest, urging the government to either close 33 medium to ultra-large industries or relocate Koppal town entirely, citing severe health and livelihood concerns.

In a seven-km radius of Koppal, 25 villages are affected by 16 mid-sized and 12 large-scale industries producing steel, cement, fertilizers, and industrial gases. The pollution control board classifies 22 of these as highly hazardous. Toxic discharges are harming crops, air, and water, triggering respiratory issues, persistent coughs, skin ailments, and eye irritation among residents.

“At night, factories release untreated fumes and fly ash. Black soot settles on crops, water, and homes, making breathing difficult,” says Ravichandra from Hirebaganal village. Ramesh Dambrahi, a farmer from Kunkeri, abandoned his once-fertile land, now ruined by pollutants from a nearby sponge iron plant. Compensation from industries barely covers his losses, and land buyers offer meager rates.

The recent Global Investors Meet sparked fears of worsening pollution. Environmentalists, activists, and religious leaders opposed the Baldota project. Pollution Control Board officials confirm violations, with notices issued to 22 units and seven facing closure threats—yet no decisive action has followed. Activist Allamaprabhu Bettadur claims Koppal is becoming a dumping ground for rejected hazardous industries. MLA Basavaraj Rayareddy insists that harmful industries be eliminated and agro-based businesses prioritized.

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