Villagers Stand Firm Against Ultratech Cement Plant for Over Three Years

Kotputli-Bahrod, Rajasthan: In the Kotputli-Bahrod district, villagers have been protesting the Ultratech Cement Plant for over 1,090 days, demanding relief from environmental hazards and proper rehabilitation. Despite a recent order from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the situation on the ground remains unresolved.

NGT Orders Ignored

The NGT’s Central Zone bench had directed the Rajasthan government to facilitate the rehabilitation of Mohanpura and Jodhpur villages, halt blasting in the plant area, and establish a green belt to mitigate environmental impact. However, locals allege that blasting continues, posing serious risks to health and the environment.

Protests Continue

At the Jodhpur Gate, residents armed with placards and inhalers have been staging continuous protests, urging the government to shut down the plant and ensure their safe relocation. Lalita Devi, a member of the Jodhpur Struggle Committee, who filed the petition in NGT, said,
“Even after the NGT order, nothing has changed on the ground. Blasting continues unabated, despite assurances from local authorities.”

Legal and Safety Issues

The NGT has mandated a 500-meter no-blast zone around the villages, ordered the company to pay ₹50,000 for structural damage and ₹20,000 for health-related impacts, and instructed the creation of a green belt within six months. Environmental lawyer Rahul Chaudhary highlighted that a 1.5 km buffer zone should exist between schools and industrial projects; currently, a crusher operates just 82 meters from a local school.

Company Response

Ultratech Cement has stated that the matter is sub judice and cannot be commented on at this stage. Locals, however, accuse the company of continuing operations without regard for regulations, and protests persist.

The Road Ahead

With the struggle now exceeding three years, the villagers remain steadfast. The issue raises serious questions about corporate accountability, environmental safety, and timely enforcement of judicial orders. Observers are closely watching whether the authorities will finally enforce NGT directives or if the protests will continue.