11 factories fined ₹500 crore for illegal construction, pollution crisis escalates

The Asansol Municipal Corporation has imposed a ₹500 crore fine on 11 factories in the Jamuria-Raniganj area for illegal construction and environmental violations. These factories have been accused of expanding their operations without the necessary approvals, leading to significant environmental degradation and land encroachment. The fine is a result of ongoing concerns raised by local residents about the harmful impact of these factories on the surrounding areas.

One of the primary issues is the diversion of the Singaran River by several factories, which has caused the river to turn red due to contamination. The factories have altered the natural flow of the river, transforming it into a drain. The environmental impact extends beyond the river, with reports indicating that the factories have encroached upon local blue forests. Additionally, some factories have reportedly occupied historical and cultural sites, such as a cremation ground being taken over by a sponge iron factory. The illegal construction has also led to the disruption of local infrastructure, with roads being blocked by factory expansions.

Local residents have expressed frustration with the scale of the environmental damage caused by these factories. They have called for a more substantial fine than the ₹500 crore levied by the Asansol Municipal Corporation, citing the long-term environmental and cultural damage. In addition to the municipal authorities, residents are urging other government bodies such as the Forest Department, the Asansol Durgapur Development Authority, and the BDO to take action and issue fines for the violations.

The Jamuria Chamber of Commerce and Industries, representing the industrialists, has stated that the establishment of the industrial estate in the region has led to improvements in socio-economic conditions. While acknowledging that some factory expansions may not have received the necessary approvals, the Chamber emphasized that the growth of the industrial sector has contributed to local economic development. The Chamber has called for a reduction in the fine, arguing that industrial expansion in the area has been a key driver of economic growth despite the construction irregularities.