Work begins on waste treatment plant despite protests

The setup of a waste collection and treatment plant near Vakkaleri hobli at Arabhikottanur began on Monday, amid tight security, as the project has come under stiff opposition from locals.

After borders were marked out, a compound wall began to take shape. Law enforcement authorities, meantime, adopted Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code, to take steps to prevent the citizenry from blocking construction.

The plant will take shape on five acres of land (survey no 52), located a kilometre from Arabhikottanur village. The location was identified by the City Municipal Council and the land was acquired through the deputy commissioner’s office.

Residents of Arabhikottanur and surrounding villages, however, fear that the plant will interfere with the local silk industry. So when news of the compund wall spread, many residents gathered at the site and began to harrass workers. Only after police intervention were tempers calmed.

The Nirmithi Centre has been given the responsibility of constructing thecompound and workers’ rooms. Some Rs 46.20 lakh has been released for this purpose. 

To ensure security, the deputy commissioner has assembled a force, including: a DSP, three Circle Inspectors, six Sub-Inspectors, six probationary Sub-Inspectors, six assistant Sub-Inspectors, six women constables, 20 head constables, 40 constables and two individuals from the district reserve police force.