Hemant Soren Seeks Immediate Action Over Alleged Industrial Pollution in Ramgarh

Ranchi: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has sought urgent action after a viral video alleged large-scale pollution caused by a steel manufacturing unit in Ramgarh district.

The video, reportedly recorded by a local youth named Surendra, shows ash and dust spreading from the factory premises into surrounding areas. According to the claims made in the footage, emissions from the plant are settling on vegetation, open land and nearby habitations, raising concerns about environmental and public health impacts.

The clip was subsequently shared on social media platform X by user Ashok Danoda, prompting widespread discussion. Taking suo motu notice, the Chief Minister reposted the video and termed the reported situation unacceptable.

He directed the Ramgarh Deputy Commissioner to conduct an immediate inquiry, initiate action as per applicable laws, and submit a comprehensive report to the government.

Visuals in the video show trees, shrubs and land near the factory coated with ash. The narrator demonstrates how the dust becomes airborne easily, allegedly affecting nearby farmlands and forested areas.

A sarcastic remark accompanying the post suggested that the factory was supplying “fertiliser” in the form of ash to surrounding fields and forests, in addition to producing steel.

Officials stated that the district administration has been instructed to verify compliance with pollution control and environmental protection norms. Ramgarh has previously witnessed multiple allegations against industrial establishments for environmental degradation and labour-related issues.

The region has also been linked to allegations of illegal coal mining in Ramgarh, Hazaribagh and Bokaro districts, reportedly catering to nearby industries. It is claimed that coal extracted illegally from forest areas is transported to factories using heavy machinery.

With inputs from IANS