Team Herald
PONDA: Shiroda locals, including women, celebrated a significant victory after the mining company agreed to provide pellet transportation trips on a rotational basis to local truckers, following a strong protest against the company’s operations.
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The protest began on Wednesday when villagers blocked the road to the company’s gate, halting movement. They had long complained of heavy dust pollution, the loss of fertile paddy land, and a lack of livelihood opportunities despite their sacrifices for the mining industry.
During the protest, locals voiced their frustration over not receiving proper compensation in the form of truck transportation trips or jobs, while alleging the company favoured external contractors and influential politicians. The issue had remained unresolved for a year.
After intervention from Deputy Collector Shubham Naik, DYSP Shivram Vaigankar, and PI Vijaynath Kavlekar, a meeting was arranged between villagers and company officials. The result was a positive agreement to implement a rotational system for local truckers, which will be on trial until March 31.
“We are happy our voices were heard,” said one local woman, reflecting the collective relief of the community.
