The Karnataka Pollution Control Board has ordered the closure of 36 units in the internationally known Ballari jeans industry, dealing a major setback to the sector. The action follows findings that several jeans-washing units were releasing chemically contaminated water without proper treatment. Despite repeated notices and warnings, violations continued, officials said.
Electricity connections to the 36 units have been cut and shutters sealed, including in locations such as Jennam. Over 2 lakh people are directly and indirectly dependent on the Bellary jeans industry, and with the closures, many washing units are now struggling to operate.
Local residents allege that negligence by officials and public representatives led to this situation, while the district administration has remained largely unresponsive. Entrepreneurs from the jeans trade have also stayed silent and have not issued any statements so far.