Chhaygaon, Assam: Opposition to the proposed cement factory in Chhaygaon intensified on Wednesday as hundreds of residents from nearby villages participated in a bike rally protesting against the project, citing concerns over environmental damage, loss of agricultural land, and threats to local livelihoods.
The rally was organised by the Land Protection Committee and was flagged off from the Govardhan Anchalik Yuvak Sangha playground. More than 500 motorcycles joined the procession, which passed through Govardhan, Choudhurykhat, Bangkakata, Dhuwargaon and Doloipara before concluding at the Chhaygaon Circle Officer’s office via National Highway-17.
Protesters alleged that the proposed cement plant at Choudhurykhat, under Chhaygaon police station in South Kamrup district, would adversely affect agriculture, water sources, and the environment in surrounding villages. They also accused a land broker nexus of purchasing land from small farmers without proper consent, paving the way for the industrial project.
Following the rally, a public meeting was held where speakers from various organisations demanded immediate cancellation of the proposed factory. Protesters recalled assurances made earlier by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah during the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council election campaign that the cement plant would not be allowed, alleging that groundwork for the project was still continuing.
A memorandum was submitted to the Chief Minister through Chhaygaon Circle Officer Chiranjit Das, demanding scrapping of the project, protection of agricultural land, and action against alleged land brokers. Several organisations, including local students’ unions and civil society groups, supported the agitation.
The protesters warned that they would intensify their movement if the government fails to address their demands and halt the proposed cement factory.
- Log in to post comments
