Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal (SP)

Bantwal, Nov 13: Local farmer leader, Mahabala Shetty, alleged that in the name of M Sand, fertile agricultural land is being turned barren at Moodambail Golithadi in Punacha village. He said that because of the huge sound created by the machinery operating in the stone quarry and crushed stone powder engulfing the atmosphere, the people living in the vicinity are facing a situation in which it has become difficult to live. He said that even after complaining to the officials, no steps are being taken to address the problem.

Shetty was addressing a press meet at Vittal on Monday November 12. "When the unit opened during the rainy season, the dust was not as severe. However, now huge clouds of dust are arising from this unit. Because of this unit, it has been rendered impossible to conduct agricultural operations in nearby fields. On account of dust, people living nearby are suffering from various ailments including cold and cough. As huge Kerala-based trucks are visiting the quarry site, the roads are getting damaged. The unit has been functioning illegally all through the day and night. Since sometime, it is noticed that the unit has not been functioning properly. We suspect that it does not have any documents other than no objection certificate issued by the gram panchayat. If the officials, who seem to have accepted illegal gratification in allowing the stone quarry to function here, continue to neglect the people, they will face strong protest," he warned.

Karnataka Rajya Raita Sangha Hasiru Sene Vittal taluk secretary, Sudesh Bhandary, farmer leaders, Srinivas Rai, Padmanabha M, Chandrahas Rai, and Muhammed Shariff were present.