Anugola: The Anugola district Congress has called for a 12-hour shutdown Wednesday to press for permanent solutions to dust and noise pollution caused by coal transportation, road accidents, traffic congestion and health problems faced by residents.
The shutdown will be observed from 6 am to 6 pm. The party has appealed to business establishments, all institutions, including private and government, and residents as well to support the bandh call. The party has also demanded a dedicated corridor for the transportation of coal and fly ash, along with measures to control dust and industrial pollution, and improve road safety and traffic management.
Earlier, the district Congress had submitted a memorandum to the state government through the district administration, listing its demands August 4. The party also sought withdrawal of cases against five persons arrested during a protest by residents of Kosala village against coal transportation.
Congress district president Sunil Kumar Pradhan said the shutdown was being observed as the administration had failed to act on the demands despite an earlier warning. Emergency services have been exempted from the shutdown. Hospitals and pharmacies will remain open, Pradhan said.
