Sat Oct 04 11:11:43 UTC 2025: **Here’s a summary of the provided text:**
The Human Rights Forum (HRF) is protesting against Ambuja Cements Ltd’s (ACL) proposal to build a cement grinding unit in Pedagantyada, Visakhapatnam. They argue the plant, with a production capacity of 4 million metric tons per annum, would be a hazardous and highly polluting industry in a densely populated area. HRF cites the health risks associated with cement plant emissions, including respiratory illnesses, skin diseases, and cardiovascular damage. They are urging the A.P. Pollution Control Board to cancel the scheduled public hearing. They argue the region is already suffering from significant pollution and that the new plant would further endanger the health and well-being of residents.
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**Human Rights Forum Demands Halt to Cement Plant Project in Visakhapatnam**
**Visakhapatnam, October 4, 2025:** The Human Rights Forum (HRF) has issued a strong condemnation of Ambuja Cements Ltd (ACL)’s proposal to establish a cement grinding unit in Pedagantyada, Visakhapatnam, demanding its immediate withdrawal. The proposed plant, with a cement production capacity of 4 million metric tons per annum (MMTPA), is facing fierce opposition from the rights group, who argue it poses a significant threat to public health and the environment.
The HRF contends that situating such a hazardous industry in a densely populated area is “reckless” and violates the fundamental rights of residents to a safe and healthy environment. They are calling upon the A.P. Pollution Control Board (APPCB) to cancel the public hearing scheduled for October 8th, citing the well-documented health risks associated with cement plant emissions.
“Cement plants, whether grinding units or full-scale factories, generate a range of toxic emissions that pose a grave risk to human health,” stated M. Sarat, HRF AP State vice-president, and V.S. Krishna, HRF AP&TG Coordination Committee member, in a press release. “These pollutants cause chronic respiratory illnesses, skin diseases, eye irritation and long-term damage to the cardiovascular system.”
The HRF highlighted scientific studies linking cement plant proximity to increased rates of asthma, bronchitis, cancer, and premature mortality. They emphasized that the Pedagantyada and Gajuwaka region is already grappling with alarming levels of air, water, and soil pollution, leaving the health of thousands of families at risk.
“The people of Pedagantyada and Gajuwaka deserve clean air, and safe water,” the HRF asserted. “They deserve to live free of the constant fear that their environment is being poisoned and their health destroyed.” The HRF has reiterated its demand that the proposed ACL cement grinding unit be scrapped entirely.
First Piper 