Following the emergence of a viral video alleging severe pollution from a private steel plant in Ramgarh, Jharkhand, Chief Minister Hemant Soren has ordered a high-priority investigation. The state administration is taking immediate steps to address the environmental concerns highlighted by the footage.
The video, shared widely online, purportedly shows the steel plant releasing significant amounts of ash and dust, which are visibly covering the surrounding environment, including vegetation. A local resident who filmed the video expressed concerns that the fine particulate matter is spreading through the air, potentially harming nearby farms and forests.
Taking note of the public outcry and the visual evidence, Chief Minister Soren publicly denounced the situation as “completely unacceptable.” He has issued a clear directive to the Ramgarh Deputy Commissioner to investigate the allegations thoroughly, implement necessary environmental protection measures, and furnish a detailed report to the state government. The administration is expected to ensure the plant adheres strictly to pollution control norms.
This incident brings renewed attention to long-standing environmental challenges in Ramgarh. The district has frequently been the subject of complaints regarding industrial pollution affecting air quality, with persistent allegations of inadequate adherence to safety and environmental regulations. The issue is further complicated by recurring reports of illicit coal mining activities in the region, believed to be linked to industrial supply chains and contributing to environmental damage.