Khrew Pampore residents decry increased air pollution caused by cement factories
Pulwama: Residents of Khrew in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district have expressed serious concern over increasing air pollution caused by multiple cement factories operating in the area, claiming it is posing significant risks to public health and the environment.
Locals allege that continuous emissions of dust and harmful particles from the factories have severely degraded air quality, leading to a rise in respiratory, chest, and lung-related ailments among residents. They claim that children, women, and the elderly are among the worst affected, with daily life becoming increasingly difficult due to the persistent pollution.
Residents further accused the concerned pollution control authorities of failing to effectively regulate emissions and take strict action against the industries responsible for the environmental degradation.
Senior BJP leader Mohammad Lateef Bhat urged the government to intervene immediately, stating that the people of Khrew have been suffering from pollution-related problems for years.
He called for strict enforcement of environmental regulations, effective pollution-control measures, and greater accountability for cement factories operating in the area.
Bhat warned that if the situation remains unchecked, the region could face a more severe public health crisis in the coming years. He also emphasized the need for a comprehensive environmental and medical survey to assess the impact of pollution and ensure timely relief for affected residents.
Locals additionally expressed concern that excessive industrial activity is damaging agricultural land and disrupting the ecological balance of the area, urging authorities to take immediate corrective measures.
