Farmers of Hirebagnal village in Koppal taluk on Friday urged Deputy Commissioner R.R. Jannu to take steps to protect their crops and land from the pollution caused by a steel factory.
“The steel factory has destroyed our crops, land and environment besides causing health hazards. Kindly do something to protect us,” Hanumanthappa Kadli, a farmer, said.
Mr. Jannu went around some of the villages to assess the extent of pollution and the damage to crops around Harikrishna Steel Industries as per the directions of Lokayukta Y. Bhaskar Rao. The village residents also expressed their displeasure over the Department of Environment not initiating steps to check pollution.
Mr. Jannu saw to himself the dust settled on crops and the contaminated water in ponds in the vicinity of houses. The residents pointed out that the residents of Kasanakindi and Chikkabaganal villages were facing a similar situation.
Mr. Jannu said that he would initiate steps after getting reports from experts on giving compensation to farmers. The steel unit would be directed to take steps to check pollution. He also said that he would submit a report to the Lokayukta.
