The Andhra Pradesh Lokayukta has mandated a detailed investigation into Dalmia Cements (Bharat) Limited following serious allegations of environmental pollution and health hazards linked to the company’s operations. This directive comes in response to claims that the cement manufacturing giant has caused significant harm to local ecosystems and agricultural lands.
Recent reports indicate that pollution from Dalmia Cements has not only adversely affected public health but has also led to environmental damage. A significant issue is the construction of a flood protection bund by the company, intended to shield the factory premises from floodwaters. Unfortunately, this bund has inadvertently obstructed a critical drainage system, resulting in severe inundation of agricultural fields in five nearby villages.
The large-scale bund, designed to protect the factory from a 48 km-long stream in the Kundu River sub-basin, has been blocking essential drainage, leading to flooding in the villages of Nawabupeta, Dugganapalli, and Chinnakomerla. Farmers from these areas have lodged formal complaints with the Lokayukta, alleging substantial crop damage. Initially, reports from local revenue officials suggested no harm to the crops. However, further investigations by the irrigation department and the Lokayukta’s own inquiry unit revealed the extent of the damage. In response to these findings, the Lokayukta has directed the Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary to establish a high-level grievance redressal committee. This panel, chaired by the District Collector and including representatives from the revenue, mines, irrigation, and Pollution Control Board (PCB) departments, will negotiate with Dalmia Cements to address the grievances.
The committee is tasked with either securing compensation for the affected farmers or facilitating the acquisition of the damaged land. The Lokayukta has emphasised the urgency of resolving farmers’ concerns and has mandated that an action report be submitted by November 5. This development underscores the increasing scrutiny on industrial practices and their environmental impact, highlighting the need for robust regulatory oversight to balance industrial growth with ecological and community welfare.
