Eviction Controversy as Toxic Gas Leak Threatens Dhanbad Community

BCCL has issued eviction notices in Rajput Basti, Dhanbad, due to harmful gas emissions. The residents resist relocation, demanding gas control instead. Alternative housing is offered, but concerns persist over livelihood. Local officials take safety measures following two fatalities and numerous health complaints linked to the emissions.

The Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) has issued eviction notices in the Rajput Basti of Putki Balihari in Dhanbad due to continuous emission of poisonous gases over the last eight days.

The General Manager of Putki Balihari Colliery Area, J K Mehta, emphasized the immediate need for evacuation following an assessment by the Directorate General of Mines Safety, which declared the area hazardous due to the gas leakage. Despite BCCL's efforts, conditions have not improved significantly.

Residents of Rajput Basti resisted eviction, demanding that BCCL manage the gas leak rather than relocating them. Meanwhile, the Dhanbad Deputy Commissioner, Aditya Ranjan, reported that alternative housing is being arranged for affected families. Increased safety measures have been implemented due to the leak's health impact, which includes two fatalities and numerous complaints among locals.,

(With inputs from agencies.)