Koppal: The Parisara Hitarakshana Vedike, an environmental advocacy group, has garnered strong public backing for the Koppal Bandh on February 24. The protest aims to highlight industrial pollution concerns and oppose the proposed integrated steel plant by the Baldota Group. Support for the movement is surging across social media, with organizations, activists, and citizens voicing their concerns.

At the Global Investors’ Meet in Bengaluru, the Baldota Group announced a ₹54,000 crore investment in a steel facility under Baldota Steel and Power Ltd (BSPL). Set to be located 10 km from Koppal’s district center, the plant aims for an annual output of 10.5 million tonnes. However, environmental groups argue that the region, already surrounded by 30 sponge iron and steel units along with 170 other industries, suffers from severe air pollution. The government’s failure to enforce pollution norms has intensified public outrage.

Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara Swami of Gavi Mutt has openly endorsed the movement, urging unity beyond political and religious divides. Private schools, transport unions, women’s groups, traders, and porters’ associations have pledged support. With widespread participation expected, Koppal could witness significant shutdowns on Monday.

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