KSPCB seals two steel factories in Koppal over pollution charges

Bengaluru: Amid mounting public outrage and sustained protests against polluting industries in Koppal district spanning several months, officials from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) on Thursday cracked down on two steel factories accused of causing severe environmental pollution and posing health risks to residents in nearby villages. The action came days after villagers raised complaints before KSPCB chairperson PM Narendraswamy during a public hearing held at Baganal village.Acting on the grievances submitted by residents, KSPCB officials, along with revenue department authorities, sealed two steel units — PBS Steel Factory near Halavarthy and Hospet Steel Company on Baganal Road near Allahnagar. Led by Koppal Assistant Commissioner Capt Mahesh Malagatti, officials visited the factories and carried out closure proceedings as part of the enforcement action initiated by the pollution control board.During the public meeting with the KSPCB chairperson, residents expressed serious concern over dust and emissions released from steel factories operating in the region. Villagers alleged that thick layers of dust and toxic fumes from the industrial units were polluting the environment and adversely affecting public health in surrounding areas.Following the complaints received during the hearing, notices were issued to five factories in the region. After further inspections and review, the KSPCB ordered closure action against two units that were violating environmental norms.Officials from the KSPCB and the revenue department, Koppal were present during the operation. Authorities said inspections of other industrial units would continue and further action would be initiated based on ongoing investigations and compliance reviews.