Protests Erupt Over Pollution from Manali Bio-CNG Plant
Residents of Manali have voiced their strong opposition to the pollution and the unpleasant foul smell emanating from the newly established Bio-CNG plant in the region. The protests have intensified in recent weeks, with locals demanding immediate action from both state and municipal authorities to address the growing concerns regarding the environmental and health impacts of the plant’s operations.
The Bio-CNG plant, designed to generate renewable energy from organic waste, was initially hailed as a step towards cleaner energy solutions. However, the surrounding community has raised alarm over the pollution and the nauseating odour that frequently wafts through the air. Locals have reported a significant deterioration in air quality, which is compounded by the noxious smell, making everyday life unbearable. The plant’s location, near residential areas, has only exacerbated the situation, with many residents experiencing respiratory discomfort and other health-related issues.
The protestors have demanded immediate steps to mitigate the pollution and control the foul odour, citing the need for both environmental sustainability and public health protection. Activists have highlighted the adverse effects of such pollution on vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Some have even called for a review of the plant’s environmental clearance and operational standards, urging authorities to implement stricter monitoring mechanisms.
Local leaders have echoed the concerns of the residents, stressing that while the plant may serve as a renewable energy source, it should not come at the cost of the community’s well-being. There is growing pressure on the authorities to conduct a thorough environmental impact assessment (EIA) to gauge the long-term effects of the plant’s emissions on both air quality and public health.
While the state government has promised to investigate the issue, no concrete measures have been announced yet. In the meantime, the protests continue, with citizens organising meetings and rallies to increase awareness and push for accountability. The situation in Manali has sparked a larger conversation about the balance between clean energy initiatives and the potential environmental hazards they may bring when not properly managed.
