Actor and social activist Prakash Raj has extended his support to the ongoing anti-pollution protest in Koppal, where residents and farmers have been opposing industrial pollution and raising concerns over the proposed expansion of the Baldota Group’s industrial activities in the district.
Prakash Raj visited the protest venue at the City Municipal Council premises in Koppal and met protesters who have been observing an indefinite dharna. The agitation, led by the Koppal District Bachao Andolana Samiti and other local groups, has been continuing for several months.
Addressing the protesters, Prakash Raj said the environmental concerns raised by the people of Koppal deserve serious attention. He indicated that he would study the issues in greater detail with his associates and said he planned to return to Koppal on October 31, when the protest is expected to complete one year.
The protesters have raised concerns about industrial pollution and its possible impact on agricultural land, water resources and the surrounding environment. They have also sought action against industries alleged to be causing pollution and have demanded measures to prevent industrial effluents from affecting local water bodies and irrigation resources in the Tungabhadra command area.
Another issue raised by the protesters is the alleged encroachment of Basapura lake, with local groups demanding that water resources in the area be protected.
The opposition is also linked to the Baldota Group’s proposed industrial expansion in Koppal. The company had announced a proposed investment of ₹54,000 crore during the Global Investors Meet in Bengaluru in 2025, including plans for a large steel project with a proposed annual production capacity of 10.5 million tonnes.
The proposed expansion has faced opposition from farmers and environmental groups, who have expressed concerns about the impact of increased industrial activity on agriculture, water and the environment. The project was subsequently put on hold following government orders, according to reports.
Baldota Group has maintained that its proposed project would use modern technology and pollution-control systems and would comply with environmental regulations and statutory requirements.
Concerns over industrial pollution in Koppal have been raised by local communities for some time. Farmers and residents in areas surrounding industrial units have complained about smoke, dust and their possible impact on crops, soil and water resources. Government officials have also examined complaints related to pollution and its potential effects on agriculture and public health.
The issue gained further attention in July when hundreds of farmers protesting against the proposed expansion entered the premises of the Baldota Steel and Power plant at Basapur following a protest march.
With Prakash Raj now publicly backing the protesters and announcing plans to return to Koppal, the ongoing dispute over industrial development and environmental concerns in the district is set to receive further attention.
The protesters continue to demand greater protection for agricultural land and water resources, while the broader debate centres on how industrial development in the region can be balanced with environmental safeguards and the concerns of communities living around industrial areas.