In a major crackdown on industrial pollution in Koppal district, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) on Thursday sealed two steel and sponge iron factories accused of causing severe air and water pollution in nearby villages. The action comes after months of protests and growing public outrage against polluting industries operating in the region.
The two factories sealed by authorities were PBS Steel Factory near Halavarthy and Hospet Steel Company located on Baganal Road near Allahnagar. Officials said the closure action was initiated after repeated complaints from villagers alleging that emissions and industrial dust from the factories were affecting public health and damaging the environment.
The sealing operation was carried out jointly by KSPCB officials and the Koppal district administration under the leadership of Assistant Commissioner Capt. Mahesh Malagatti. Revenue department officials were also present during the enforcement drive.
The action follows a public hearing held recently at Baganal village, where residents directly raised their concerns before KSPCB Chairperson PM Narendraswamy. Villagers complained that thick dust and toxic fumes released from steel factories were polluting the air, contaminating water sources, and creating serious health hazards for people living in surrounding areas.
Based on the grievances received during the hearing, the KSPCB issued notices to five factories in the region and launched inspections into their operations. Following detailed inspections and compliance reviews, authorities decided to seal two factories found violating environmental norms.
Officials stated that one of the sponge iron factories sealed during the operation had reportedly stopped functioning nearly a year ago. However, authorities cited “willful negligence” and unresolved pollution concerns as reasons for taking strict action.
Residents of nearby villages have welcomed the move, saying they have been demanding action against polluting industries for several months. Locals alleged that industrial dust regularly settled on houses, roads, crops, and water bodies, severely impacting everyday life.
Authorities said inspections of other industrial factories in the region would continue and further action would be taken against those found violating pollution control regulations.