Protests Erupt in Sonapur Against Construction of Cement Factory

Sonapur erupted in protests today as residents and local organizations voiced strong opposition to the construction of a new cement factory by Taj Cement Authority. The proposed factory, with an annual production capacity of 10 lakh units, has raised significant environmental concerns, leading to widespread backlash.

The Assam Pollution Control Board organized a public hearing to gather community feedback on the project. However, weeks of unrest had already set the stage for the hearing, as residents felt inadequately informed about the project’s details and potential impacts. The hearing itself turned chaotic, with an angry crowd surrounding Taj Cement Authority officials even before the proceedings began.

The situation quickly escalated, necessitating the deployment of police and CRPF personnel to manage the unrest. Clashes broke out between protestors and security forces, resulting in violent confrontations involving sharp weapons and physical assaults.

The primary concern driving the protests is the environmental impact of the proposed factory. Sonapur, known for its lush landscapes, faces significant ecological risks from such industrial development. Activists argue that the construction of the factory will cause irreversible damage to the local ecosystem, posing threats to both human health and biodiversity.

Supported by local organizations and political parties, protestors are advocating for the preservation of Sonapur’s natural beauty and ecological balance. The residents’ firm opposition to the cement factory has garnered widespread attention, highlighting the ongoing struggle between industrial development and environmental conservation.