Anugola: Normal life was disrupted across Anugola district of Odisha on Wednesday due to a dawn-to-dusk shutdown called by Congress demanding immediate steps to curb air pollution and other problems caused by coal and ash transportation.
The 12-hour bandh, called by the district Congress, seeks a permanent solution to problems caused by coal and ash transportation. They are also demanding withdrawal of cases against five agitators from Koshala Panchayat who were allegedly arrested on false charges.
The protesters claimed that all activities except essential and emergency services have come to a halt across the district during the bandh.
Sources said schools, colleges, government offices, private establishments, shops and markets remained closed during the bandh. Vehicular movement came to a halt since morning, while shops and markets downed their shutters.
Congress workers held picketing at various intersections and seeking the cooperation of the people.
Police are keeping a close watch on the agitators. Police personnel have been deployed at all sensitive locations in Anugola town. The impact of the 12-hour bandh is visible in Athmallik.
District unit president of Congress President Sunil Pradhan said pollution levels in the district have been rising due to the continuous and massive transportation of coal and fly ash. The rising pollution caused serious health hazards for the people.
He further alleged that five people from Koshala who had protested against the pollution have been lodged in jail for nearly four months. The bandh has been called to protest these issues and demand the withdrawal of the cases against the five. The call has received support from various organisations.