“No Ambuja Cement Factory” – this slogan echoed across Peda Gantyada village in Gajuwaka, Visakhapatnam district, as hundreds of villagers, especially women and youth, staged a massive protest on Wednesday. They strongly opposed the proposed Ambuja Cement Factory, fearing it would destroy farmlands and increase pollution.
The protesters said that existing industries have already caused serious air, water, and soil pollution, affecting children’s health. Adding another cement plant, they argued, would make life unbearable. “How can we live if another polluting factory comes here?” asked angry residents. They accused the government of sacrificing people’s livelihoods for industrial expansion.
Leaders from CPM and several public organizations joined the villagers, demanding the immediate cancellation of the factory plan. The protest grew intense, forcing the police to deploy in large numbers. Locals also expressed anger at regional leaders who supported the project. Officials stated they would record public opinions and submit a report, but tension continued to grip the area.
The “No Ambuja Cement Factory” protest at Peda Gantyada highlights growing resistance in Visakhapatnam district against unchecked industrial expansion.
