Protesters close gates to Shalimar Cement

Local residents staged a sit-in outside Shalimar Cement Industry, claiming environmental pollution caused by the industry at Jitpur-Simara sub-metropolis in Bara of Nepal.

Protested were incensed after the authorities ignored frequent request to control pollution caused by the industry. Local protesters closed the main gate of the cement factory in protest.

Ward No 3 chair Jagannath Ghimire said locals had staged the sit-in protest to pressure the industry owners after the industry went back on an agreement.

Ward chair at Jitpur Simara Sub-metropolis-6, Kyamudin Ansari, said they were compelled to stage protest after the industry did not take initiatives to curb pollution. Different problems have occurred in the areas due to the smoke emitted by the industry.

Mayor at the sub-metropolis, Krishna Poudel, said the industry owner had done nothing to control the pollution even though they had drawn their attention for the same time and again. "The sub-metropolis is committed to addressing the problems of the people," he added.

Krishna Poudel said the sub-metropolis would take necessary decision after holding discussion with the industry owner.