Farmers Rally Against Ethanol Plant in Hanumangarh

Farmers in Hanumangarh are protesting against a proposed ethanol plant in Tibbi town, citing potential pollution and groundwater contamination. A committee, including key officials, will investigate these environmental concerns. Security has been tightened amid protests demanding the cancellation of the plant's MoU and action against involved officials.

Farmers in Hanumangarh gathered on Wednesday to protest a proposed ethanol plant in Tibbi town. Supported by local Congress leaders, the demonstration aims to halt the construction of the ethanol factory in the Rathi Khera area, planned by a Chandigarh-based company. Concerns have been raised over pollution and potential groundwater contamination from the plant.

Responding to these fears, the Department of Forest and Environment has set up a committee to investigate. Led by the Bikaner Division Commissioner, the committee includes the Hanumangarh District Collector and senior engineers from the Pollution Control Board. Their findings will be submitted to the state government.

As tensions rise, the administration has enforced stringent security measures, closing all gates of Dhan Mandi except the main entrance and suspending mobile internet services. The protest escalated in July and became more intense when farmers clashed with police after demolishing a boundary wall of the project site.

(With inputs from agencies.)