The issue of alleged air and water pollution from the silicon factory in IGC Niglok has been taken up by the Central Pollution Control Board, Pasighat West MLA Ninong Ering said while attempting to appease citizens during a meeting attended by stakeholders and agitating villagers opposing the unit for allegedly polluting the area. The meeting was convened by the East Siang district administration to resolve the ongoing dispute.
Lok Sabha member Tapir Gao also intervened and appealed to the villagers to engage in constructive negotiations with the authorities. The MP assured them that a mitigation policy would be put in place to control hazardous pollution from the factory. However, the agitating villagers and the IGC Pollution-Affected People’s Forum expressed dissatisfaction with these assurances.
The villagers alleged that the state government has failed to implement any effective mitigation measures despite repeated representations. As the meeting ended without a resolution, the protesters have decided to continue blocking the transportation of raw materials and finished products to and from the factory.
The silicon factory has been opposed by villagers since the extent of the pollution came to light. Even if consent was granted earlier, the authorities need to reexamine the matter if it comes at the cost of public health and the environment.