Doda environmental group seeks closure of Hot Mixing Plant in Bhalessa

Doda, May 31: A local non-governmental organisation and residents of several villages in Bhalessa have demanded the closure of a hot mixing plant and its associated dumping yard, alleging environmental violations, river bed encroachment and non-compliance with prescribed siting norms.

The demand has been raised by the Enviro Educational Health and Social Welfare Association (JEEHO) Bhalessa and residents of Neeli, Halore, Changa, Tawaie and Ashaan villages, who claim that the plant’s operations are causing pollution and adversely affecting the local environment and public life.

According to residents, the functioning of the plant has become a matter of growing concern due to alleged dust emissions and environmental degradation in nearby areas. They contend that the plant’s operations have created difficulties for local communities living in its vicinity.

The NGO has called for the immediate closure of the unit, alleging violations of environmental guidelines and raising concerns about the location of the facility. It has also launched a signature campaign and is mobilising public support to file a petition before the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

JEEHO president Safder Ali urged authorities and the NGT to examine the concerns raised by local residents and environmental groups, alleging that the plant’s operations require detailed scrutiny.

Local resident Bashir Ahmed Mattoo alleged that the unit is generating large-scale pollution and contributing to environmental concerns in nearby villages. He said residents are increasingly worried about dust emissions and their possible impact on public health and the surrounding environment.

The NGO and residents further alleged that the plant has occupied a substantial portion of land in the Tawaie Pull river bed area. They also raised concerns over the alleged dumping of muck and waste material into the Kalgoni stream, which they fear could affect local water resources.

Another local activist, Chuni Lal, alleged that illegal river bed mining and related activities linked to the plant are creating hardships for the local population and warrant investigation by the concerned departments.

Residents have also questioned whether the plant complies with approved siting criteria. According to local claims, the facility is operating in the Neeli area, whereas the sanction and approval reportedly pertain to Dudwar revenue village. They have urged authorities to verify official records and determine whether the plant is functioning at its approved location.

Additional concerns have been raised about the alleged proximity of the plant to public infrastructure. Villagers claim that several schools are located within about 450 metres of the site, while a hospital and the Neeli link road are situated nearby. They contend that the plant’s location close to the roadside poses potential environmental and public safety concerns.

The residents and the NGO have called upon the district administration, pollution control authorities, the mining department and other concerned agencies to conduct an impartial inquiry and take action if violations of environmental laws, mining regulations or land-use norms are established.

While stressing the importance of development and industrial activity, the residents said such projects must be implemented in accordance with environmental regulations and public safety standards to safeguard local communities and natural resources.