Anugola District Shuts Down Amid Congress Bandh Over Coal Transport Pollution

Anugola district witnessed a complete shutdown on Wednesday as the Congress party enforced a 12‑hour bandh from 6 am to 6 pm, demanding a permanent solution to pollution caused by coal and fly ash transportation.

Educational institutions, government offices, shops, and markets remained closed, while vehicular movement was halted across the district.

The bandh also received support from several local organisations, amplifying its impact.

Congress leaders highlighted two key demands: immediate measures to curb pollution from coal and ash transport, and withdrawal of cases against five residents of Koshala Panchayat who have been jailed for nearly four months after protesting against pollution.

Athmallik town Congress unit joined the protest, staging picketing at major intersections.

Police forces were deployed across the district to maintain law and order during the bandh.