Ruksin, East Siang, February 15: Tension continues to rise in the Ruksin sub-division of Arunachal Pradesh’s East Siang district as villagers intensify protests against a ferro-silicon factory operated by M/s Aether Alloys LLP at the Niglok Industrial Growth Centre (IGC).
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| Protesters clash with security personnel during a tense demonstration, as unrest escalates amid mounting grievances. (Image: TNP) |
Residents from surrounding villages have demanded the immediate relocation of the plant, alleging severe environmental degradation and serious health concerns linked to its operations. Protesters claim that emissions from the factory have led to declining air quality, damage to crops, and contamination of nearby water sources.
According to villagers, persistent smoke and dust released during the ferro-silicon manufacturing process have caused respiratory problems, skin irritations, and other health complications, particularly among children and the elderly. They also allege that pollution has adversely impacted agricultural productivity, threatening the livelihoods of farming communities in the region.
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Community leaders said repeated representations to the authorities have not yielded concrete action. They stressed that while industrial development is important, it must not compromise public health or environmental sustainability.
The protesters have urged the district administration and the state government to conduct an immediate environmental impact assessment and take decisive measures, including shifting the plant away from densely populated areas and enforcing stricter pollution control norms.
With villagers vowing to intensify their agitation, the situation in the area remains tense as authorities monitor developments.
