Sealed on paper, running on ground: Illegal crusher unit operates in Odisha’s Bolangir

A stone crusher unit reportedly operated by ARSS Company in Nirmula village under Titilagarh subdivision of Bolangir district has allegedly continued operations despite being officially sealed by the administration.

While government records describe the crusher as shut, ground reports and visual evidence suggest that the unit is still functioning, with trucks transporting large quantities of stone aggregates from the site.

According to information obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the crusher was ordered to be closed by the administration following complaints from local residents. Official documents indicate that the unit remains sealed and non-operational. In the ground reality, however, the unit still shows signs of complete operations.

Complaints Of Health Impact And Crop Damage

Sources reported that residents of Nirmula village had earlier alleged that prolonged operation of the crusher near the habitation caused severe dust pollution, leading to health problems among villagers and damage to agricultural crops.

Following these complaints, the administration reportedly sealed the crusher and imposed a penalty of Rs 6.58 crore on the operating company.

In stark contrast, RTI replies indicate that the penalty amount has not been paid and that the crusher remains officially closed. The continued movement of trucks and alleged on-site activity has therefore triggered concerns about violations of closure orders and possible administrative lapses.

Visual Evidence Raises Questions

Despite the documented closure, video footage obtained by OTV shows what appears to be ongoing crushing activity and the transportation of stone aggregates from the site. The visuals suggest that operations may be continuing in contravention of official orders, though the exact date and duration of the activity shown in the footage have not been specified.

Villagers allege that despite repeated complaints, no effective action has been taken to stop the operations permanently.

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No Response From Authorities Or Company

At the time of filing this report, no official response was available from the district administration regarding the allegations of continued operation. The ARSS Company has also not issued any statement on the matter.

Officials have not clarified whether fresh inspections have been conducted after the sealing order or whether action will be initiated if violations are confirmed.