Kota: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla’s plan to develop the Talera belt in Bundi district into a major agro-industrial hub is facing resistance after residents of 10–12 villages in the Ladpura–Suwana area of Talera block began a dharna over alleged air and water pollution from a local ethanol plant. Protesters are demanding strict corrective measures or closure of the unit, saying pollution is affecting nearly 20,000 people. The agitation has intensified as seven more ethanol units, already granted Consent to Operate (CTO), are expected to start soon.The focus of the protest is Pingaksh Breweries Private Limited, an ethanol manufacturing plant in Ladpura that started operations more than a year ago. Villagers allege the factory releases hazardous emissions and discharges toxic effluent that damage local infrastructure. Demonstrators have been sitting outside the factory gates, claiming the stench continues day and night and is causing health problems, including nausea and vomiting, especially among children. Farmers also report severe crop losses; one farmer, Sheojilal, said industrial effluents destroyed his six-bighas of paddy crop.Factory officials deny wrongdoing. The unit’s technical head, DP Mishra said the plant follows govt-mandated modern technology and operates under Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) norms. He argued that rainwater naturally flows through drains during heavy rainfall and said blaming chemical contamination is incorrect. Management said they invited locals for dialogue inside the facility.Political and administrative officials visited the site, including Congress members and Bundi MLA Harimohan Sharma. Sharma said disputes involve group interests and land issues but stated farmers should be compensated if factory-caused damage is proven. Tehsildar Harshit Sharma said a five-member committee of local representatives was formed, and the Pollution Control Board was asked to conduct on-site inspections at locations identified by the committee. Pollution Control Board officer Ashok Kumar Jalia said no visible field water pollution was found but confirmed a preliminary survey report was sent to the state.
