Horticultural farmers in villages near Koppal, such as Allanagar, Halavarthy, Hosalli, and Bevinahalli, are facing severe losses due to unchecked industrial pollution from nearby factories. These crops, in high demand during summer and a key source of income, are now struggling due to smog and dust contamination.
The primary concern stems from the lack of proper buffer zones around sponge iron factories, leading to widespread pollution affecting both farmland and public health. The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board has flagged this issue in its environmental assessments, yet no significant measures have been enforced. Residents complain that the frequent movement of heavy vehicles worsens road conditions and increases dust levels.
MLC Hemalatha Nayak revealed in the assembly that Koppal taluk houses 202 operational factories, some of which violate smoke management regulations. While authorities ordered the closure of 12 non-compliant industries, enforcement remains pending.
Mahesh Patil, a farmer from Vadnal village near the Tungabhadra River, highlights how industrial dust is damaging crop yields and causing health issues like respiratory problems and joint pain. He asserts that controlling pollution, rather than compensation, would significantly improve farming prospects.
The horticulture department confirms that emissions hinder photosynthesis, reducing productivity. Farmers, unable to sell locally due to contamination, are forced to seek distant markets. Despite a decade of appeals to authorities, an effective resolution is yet to be implemented.
Read Also: