Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner H.V. Darshan has been urged to intervene and resolve the long-pending issue of land acquisition linked to the creation of a green buffer zone around the MRPL Coke-Sulphur unit, as residents of Jokatte and Kenjar continue to express concerns over health and environmental impacts.

The demand was raised by Jokatte Nagarika Horata Samiti convener Muneer Katipalla during the second day of an indefinite agitation launched by the organisation in Jokatte on Tuesday. Protesters stated that residents living near the industrial area have been facing problems for several years and called for urgent action to address the matter.

The agitation began on Monday with the samiti seeking completion of the process for acquiring 27 acres of land intended for the proposed green buffer zone.

Residents raise concerns over health and pollution

Speaking during the protest, Muneer Katipalla alleged that people residing in Jokatte and Kenjar have been experiencing health concerns due to pollution from the Coke-Sulphur unit.

According to him, air pollution from the industrial operations has remained a major issue affecting residents living in nearby areas. He said concerns over environmental impact and public health have repeatedly been brought before authorities over the years.

Residents participating in the agitation claimed that the issue has continued without a permanent resolution despite repeated representations and demands.

Local communities have maintained that the establishment of a green buffer zone between industrial operations and residential areas is necessary to reduce the impact of emissions and improve living conditions.

Environmental buffer zones are generally created around industrial establishments to minimise direct exposure to pollution and to provide an additional protective layer between industrial and residential areas.

Samiti seeks immediate intervention from district administration

The protest organisers urged the district administration to take swift steps in implementing the pending land acquisition process.

Katipalla said the Deputy Commissioner should show concern for families living in affected areas and ensure that the matter is resolved without further delay.

According to him, affected residents have been waiting for a long time for implementation of the proposed measures and continue to face uncertainty.

He stated that the issue should be treated as a matter concerning public health and welfare rather than being subjected to prolonged administrative delays.

The indefinite agitation launched by the samiti is intended to bring attention to the concerns of residents and accelerate action on the proposal.

Demand focuses on acquisition of 27 acres

The primary demand of the protest centres on the completion of the process for acquiring 27 acres of land for the proposed green buffer zone.

The proposed buffer area is expected to function as a separation zone between the industrial unit and nearby residential settlements.

Residents and activists believe that such measures would help reduce the impact of pollution and create safer living conditions for surrounding communities.

The issue of land acquisition has reportedly remained pending for a considerable period, resulting in growing frustration among residents.

People participating in the protest argued that long delays in implementation have increased anxiety among families residing close to the industrial zone.

Officials indicate acquisition process may begin soon

Meanwhile, officials from the district administration overseeing the issue stated that the government has approved a package related to the acquisition process.

According to officials, the package includes compensation measures, rehabilitation support and employment opportunities for affected individuals.

Authorities further indicated that the land acquisition process is expected to begin shortly.

The development has provided some optimism among residents, although protesters have stressed that implementation on the ground remains the key concern.

Residents said they would continue to monitor developments closely and seek timely execution of the approved measures.

The issue has once again highlighted the balance required between industrial growth and the concerns of communities residing near large industrial establishments. Protesters have emphasised that development initiatives must also address environmental protection and public welfare.