Pollution-control measures enforced by the Angul district administration in Talcher are allegedly failing to deliver results, with residents claiming that violations continue unabated despite official restrictions. Talcher, which recently topped the list of India’s most polluted cities, is currently under a seven-day restriction regime aimed at reducing alarming pollution levels.
Local residents alleged that hundreds of heavy vehicles are freely plying through the town, significantly adding to dust and air pollution. Coal transportation by trains and trucks is reportedly taking place without mandatory tarpaulin covers, in violation of prescribed environmental norms.
Concerns have also been raised over the alleged failure to implement dust-suppression measures. Although official directives mandate water sprinkling on city roads at least three times a day, residents claimed the instructions are largely being ignored. Keshab Bhutia, a resident of Talcher, said the collector’s directives have had little impact on the ground, alleging that no water sprinkling was carried out despite announcements.
In several residential areas, coal is reportedly being used for cooking in open hearths, further worsening air quality. Residents alleged that administrative orders remain confined to paper, while unchecked truck movement has led to severe traffic congestion. Ash-laden trucks, NTPC vehicles, and other heavy transporters were allegedly operating illegally and using alternative routes to evade monitoring.
Responding to the allegations, Talcher Municipality Executive Officer Pradeep Shah said enforcement measures are underway. He stated that awareness campaigns have been conducted to discourage the use of coal for cooking, coal has been seized from multiple locations, and action has been proposed against vehicles operating without proper tarpaulin covers. The municipality has reiterated that strict legal action will be taken against violators, even as residents continue to demand stronger and more visible enforcement to address Talcher’s deteriorating air quality.
