Locals seek answers on the Kopili River, elephant and dolphin habitats, water sampling and availability of the draft EIA
Morigaon: Residents of Pub Dharamtul, Bhalukaguri and adjoining areas in Assam’s Morigaon district have raised several objections to the Draft Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Max Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd.’s proposed 1 million TPA cement grinding unit, ahead of the August 28 public hearing.
Residents said they visited the Dakhin Dharamtul Gaon Panchayat office on August 25 to access the draft EIA but were informed that it was unavailable. They have sought clarification on whether the document was made accessible for public scrutiny before the hearing.
The proposed wildlife conservation plan has also drawn concerns over the reported omission of the Indian elephant and the absence of the Gangetic river dolphin, despite the project site being around 80 metres from the Kopili River. Residents have also questioned whether the plan received approval from the Chief Wildlife Warden, Assam.
They further flagged discrepancies in water-quality sampling locations, saying the EIA lists points around 300 metres upstream and 950 metres downstream, instead of the 60-metre locations prescribed under the approved Terms of Reference.
The project’s proposed 81 KLD daily freshwater requirement has also prompted questions over dry-season source availability. Actor and environmental activist Arghadeep Baruah warned that the project could disturb the area’s ecological balance and wildlife habitats.
Residents said they are not opposed to industrialisation but want their concerns formally addressed at the public hearing.
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