Farmers and fish farmers in Khedabari area of Sonamura subdivision under Sepahijala district have staged a protest by blocking the gate of ONGC on Thursday, alleging that chemical waste from ONGC operations has contaminated agricultural land and fishery ponds, damaging crops and causing the death of fish.
The controversy has resurfaced in Khedabari under Sonamura subdivision over ONGC drilling activities. According to local farmers, chemicals discharged from the project area are stored in a tank. They alleged that following recent rainfall, the tank overflowed, allowing chemically contaminated water to enter nearby agricultural fields.
The farmers claimed that the contaminated water caused crops to burn and wither, while also damaging the soil. They alleged that the pollution was not confined to agricultural land, as nearby water bodies and ponds were also affected after the chemicals reportedly entered them.
Local fish farmers claimed that the contaminated water resulted in the death of a large number of fish. They also expressed concern over whether the surviving fish are safe for consumption.
Residents further alleged that a chemical- and kerosene-like smell has been coming from the affected water bodies. They claimed that the contamination is also harming fish and other aquatic life.
The affected farmers and fish farmers alleged that despite repeatedly informing the ONGC authorities about the issue, no permanent solution has been provided.
Eventually, they blocked the ONGC gate and staged a protest demanding compensation for the losses. The farmers demanded appropriate compensation for the damage to their crops and property, warning that they would launch a larger agitation if their demands were not addressed.
The farmers said agricultural land is their primary source of livelihood and expressed concern over how they would support their families if their land continued to be damaged by chemical waste. They demanded that the extent of the damage be assessed immediately and adequate compensation be provided.
The affected farmers also claimed that they had informed the Sonamura subdivision administration about the matter. However, no official statement from ONGC has so far been reported regarding the allegations. The actual cause of the alleged chemical contamination and the extent of the damage will become clear only after a proper investigation.