Cow deaths due to toxic effluents from private company trigger protest in Cuttack

Tension prevailed in the Banki area of Cuttack district on Saturday after villagers staged a protest in front of a private company, alleging that the discharge of toxic effluents led to the death of several cows. 

Residents of Nuasahi village under Bansara Panchayat placed the carcasses of two dead cows at the main gate of the company as part of their demonstration, demanding immediate action.

According to the villagers, poisonous water released from the company premises had contaminated nearby water sources, resulting in the death of livestock. Locals claimed that four cows had died till now after consuming the polluted water. With two more cows reportedly dying on Saturday, public anger against the company escalated, prompting the protest.

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The demonstration caused disruption in the area for several hours as villagers demanded accountability and compensation for the loss of their cattle. They also urged the authorities to stop the alleged discharge of untreated and toxic wastewater to prevent further harm to animals and the environment.

Following the complaints, officials responded by deploying a veterinary team to the spot. Water samples were collected from the suspected sources and have been sent for laboratory testing to ascertain the cause of the cattle deaths. Officials said further action would be taken based on the test reports.

The incident has raised serious concerns about environmental safety and industrial waste management in the region. Local residents have called for strict monitoring of industrial units and immediate intervention to ensure the safety of livestock and public health.