Srinagar, Feb 04: The residents of Khanmouh’s Gujjar Basti claim no efforts have been made by the authorities to stop the proposed construction of a cement factory at Sekinar.
They said that they have been moving from pillar to pillar to prohibit the authorities from granting the permission.
“We went to divisional commissioner, pollution control board and wild life warden Dachigam. We were assured that our plea will be heard but so far nothing has happened with regard to the resolution of our plea,” said a resident Raqib Khan.
The residents reiterated that incase, the permission to construct the factory is granted, they would come on to the streets.
“If the factory will come up, we would have to face serious health problems. Already, we have been suffering because of the huge number of cement factories. We will go to any extent to save ourselves,” said another resident Ghulam Nabi Khan.
“We have so many cement factories in our area. Flora and fauna has been completely destroyed. We don’t want further pollution in our area,” he added.
The residents said that the construction of cement factory will affect around 55 households.
“Animal species would also face the brunt. Dachigam national park is few metres away from the location. The students studying at Sekinar High School will also face lot of problems,” they said.
“In the school, around 150 students have been enrolled. Once the factory is started, it will cause serious health complications among the students,” said Javeed Ahmad.
They residents demanded rehabilitation, in case the permission is granted.
The owner of the proposed cement company, Basharat Ahmad Ganie said that there is no threat of pollution.
“Today, we have latest technology available, because of which chances of pollution are minimal,” he said.
“The public hearing was conducted by Pollution Control Board. Representatives from district administration were also present. If someone had objections, he should have raised them in the meeting,” he said.
Despite repeated attempts, the district administration could not be contacted for their comments.
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