Why Are Residents of Bhubaneswar Protesting Against the Sainik School Dump Yard?
Silent Protest Against Illegal Dump Yard
In Bhubaneswar, residents rallied under the 'Save Sainik School, Remove Dump Yard' initiative, holding a silent protest at the entrance of Sainik School on Saturday. Their primary demand is the closure of an illegal dump yard that has been in operation behind the school for 18 years.
Participants donned black masks and taped their mouths shut, symbolizing their discontent over the ongoing health risks and environmental damage caused by the dump yard, which has been functioning without the necessary environmental clearances or approvals from the Pollution Control Board.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) submitted to the Odisha High Court has compelled the State Government, Defence Ministry, Pollution Control Boards, and the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) to provide comprehensive affidavits.
The Chairman of the Bhubaneswar Development Authority, Vasudev Bhatt, has been instructed to submit a response by August 4.
Despite multiple protests, road blockades, and the symbolic opening of an alternative facility at Palasuni by local residents, the government has rebranded the site as a temporary waste management center, further frustrating the community.
Reports indicate that the BMC has initiated police actions against several protestors, including community leaders.
The dump yard's operations have adversely affected thousands of residents in Gadakana, VSS Nagar, Mancheswar, and surrounding areas, impacting institutions such as Sainik School and Utkal University.
Prior to taking office, the ruling BJP participated in a 40-day protest at the site, with assurances from the Chief Minister and senior officials that the issue would be resolved within two days of their government formation.
However, after one and a half years, there has been no action from their side. Activists, including campaign leader Bhikhyakari Tripathy and senior members like Vasudev Bhatt and Ashok Paikaray, have indicated that the movement will escalate in the coming days.