Mounesh Vishwakarma
Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal
Bantwal, Nov 16: In a significant development, Karunakara Naythottu, president of the Vittla town panchayat, confirmed that the panchayat does not support the construction of a waste treatment plant at Apperipade, following widespread opposition from local residents.
Speaking at a press conference in Vittla, Naythottu explained that the project, which was approved during the tenure of the previous administrator, no longer has backing from the current Panchayat.
"Local residents have raised valid concerns about the potential issues the plant could cause. The panchayat will not go against the will of the people," Naythottu stated.
He emphasised that while a waste treatment plant is necessary within the town limits, the project would be relocated to a more suitable area that would not cause inconvenience to the residents.
The press meet was attended by vice-president Sangeetha Panemajalu, Panchayat members Ravish Vittla, and Vasanth.
MLA Ashok Rai intervenes, orders suspension of waste treatment plant construction
In response to local protests, MLA Ashok Rai visited the Apperipade site and ordered a temporary halt to the construction work for the waste treatment plant.
Speaking at the site, Rai said, "We cannot allow development projects that go against the interests of the people. It is essential to listen to their concerns and act accordingly."
Rai added that he had previously instructed the Vittla town panchayat about the local objections to the project. He reiterated that the current site was not suitable for the plant due to its proximity to residential areas and cultural landmarks.
The project site, which is located near the Panchalingeshwara Temple, is also close to the annual temple festival, which further intensified opposition. Local residents, including around 250 families, have voiced concerns over the potential environmental impact of the plant.
The meeting was attended by local leaders, including Vittla town panchayat member Ashraf, former Vittla gram panchayat president Ramanath Vittla, and Alike Grama Panchayat president Padmanabh Sanneguttu, who expressed their solidarity with the local residents.