Cement factory expansion opposed in Orissa

The expansion of the Toshali cement factory at Ampaballi in Pottangi block of Koraput area of Orissa was objected by scores of tribals on November 20 during a public meeting organised at the Pottangi tehsil office.

The meeting had to be stopped mid-way after villagers raised objections about organising the public hearing at a place which is around 50 km from the company and alleged that it was a ploy by the company officials to ensure that villagers cannot attend it.

The villagers complain that the company has polluted the entire area. Villagers are suffering from tuberculosis and various skin diseases.