Belagavi Villagers Stage Massive Protest Against Garbage Disposal Unit
Thousands of villagers from 12 villages in Belagavi taluk, including Turmuri, organized a large-scale protest in Belagavi on Friday. The demonstration targeted the garbage disposal unit operated by the Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) near Turmuri village, with participants demanding its immediate relocation due to severe health and environmental concerns.
Health and Environmental Grievances
The protesters highlighted that the solid waste processing unit at Turmuri village, situated approximately 10 kilometers from the city, is causing significant health problems for residents in surrounding areas. They reported issues such as respiratory ailments, skin conditions, and other illnesses linked to the facility. Additionally, the unit is accused of polluting the local environment, with complaints about foul odors, groundwater contamination, and reduced agricultural productivity affecting farmlands.
Protest Details and Villages Involved
The protest commenced at Sardar Ground, where villagers from Turmuri and nearby settlements like Bachi, Kallehol, Hindalga, Ambewadi, Mannur, Bekkinakere, Gojaga, Basurte, Konewadi, Uchgaon, and Sulaga gathered. They marched to Channamma Circle, displaying placards and shouting slogans against the district administration and state government. The march continued to the deputy commissioner's office, where a sit-in was staged to amplify their demands.
Historical Context and Village Opposition
Village leaders explained that Belagavi generates around 250 tonnes of waste daily, all directed to the Turmuri plant. The site, covering 26.7 hectares, began as a landfill in 2006, with BCC partnering with a private company for operations in 2007. Opposition from Turmuri and neighboring villages has persisted since the unit's inception, with residents arguing that rural communities are unfairly burdened by urban waste management.
Demands and Official Response
The protesters condemned what they called an anti-democratic move, stating that polluting villages in the name of a smart city initiative sacrifices rural livelihoods and exploits farmers, laborers, women, and vulnerable groups. They demanded immediate relocation of the unit to mitigate ground, water, and air pollution. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan accepted a memorandum from the protesters but noted no current plans to shut or shift the facility, citing significant financial investments. He assured discussions with representatives and officials to seek solutions and invited 10 protesters for further talks at his office.
