Ramgarh Steel Plant Given April 8 Deadline to Curb Pollution
Residents and Politicians Demand Action
In Ramgarh, a private iron and steel plant, Bihar Foundry and Casting Limited (BFCL), is under pressure from residents and political parties to reduce its harmful emissions. These emissions are causing severe air pollution in the city, affecting over 50,000 residents and even impacting the nearby garrison.
Protests and Requests
- Civil society groups and political parties have protested against BFCL.
- Locals, including hundreds of women, have demonstrated on the streets against the plant management.
- On March 8, Hazaribag MP Manish Jaiswal met with factory officials and administration, requesting the company to curtail emissions within a month.
Health Worries
Residents are concerned about the long-term health implications if immediate measures are not taken. Anmol Singh, former vice-chairman of Ramgarh Cantonment Board, said, “Around 50,000 residents in ward no.1 are severely affected by pollution. The impact extends to the Ramgarh Military Station, where two Indian Army regiments are stationed.”
Congress Party Threatens Protest
Shantnu Mishra, spokesperson for the Congress in Ramgarh, said the party will launch a protest if the BFCL does not comply with its promise.
Ramgarh SDO Warns of Action
Ramgarh SDO Anurag Kumar Tiwari warned that action would be taken against the BFCL management for the adverse health impacts among the residents.
BFCL Acknowledges Problem
Rakesh Kumar, a senior official at BFCL, acknowledged the issue, attributing the release of unpurified air to technical problems. “Work is underway to address the problem, and we will completely control air pollution within a few days,” he assured.
