Residents of Mandiala and Chabba villages on the outskirts of Amritsar are strongly opposing a proposed private biomedical waste treatment facility, raising concerns over potential harm to public health and the environment. The Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (KMSC) is leading the protest, urging the state government and district administration to withdraw the project.
Proposed site near sensitive locations
The KMSC leaders highlighted that the proposed plant would be located close to several sensitive sites. The historic Gurdwara Shaheed Singhan, which commemorates warriors martyred in battles against Ahmad Shah Abdali, is situated approximately 150 metres from the proposed facility. Additionally, a school attended by young children is located in the same vicinity.
The committee also noted that one residential house would share a boundary wall with the plant, while dozens of other homes are within a radius of 100 to 200 metres. This proximity has intensified fears among villagers about the facility's impact on their daily lives.
Health and environmental concerns
According to KMSC leaders, the facility would incinerate biomedical waste, including human organs, tumours, and body parts. They warned that emissions from such incineration could be harmful to nearby residents, affecting air, water, and soil quality. The committee stated that residents of both villages are deeply worried about these potential impacts.
Panchayat opposition and NOC controversy
The panchayats of Mandiala and Chabba have officially opposed the project. The KMSC questioned attempts to obtain No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from these panchayats despite their stated objections. This has added to the tension between the community and the project proponents.
Threat of intensified protests
The KMSC has warned the government of intensified protests if the decision to set up the plant is not reversed. The committee vowed to launch a strong agitation to safeguard human health, livestock, birds, and the environment. They reaffirmed their commitment to continue opposing the project until it is withdrawn.
The district administration has yet to respond to the allegations or the demands of the protesting villagers.
