Telangana: Farmers raise pollution concerns over Ethanol industries

During an awareness programme on ethanol production and its environmental impact at BRK Bhavan, key stakeholders, including farmers, environmentalists, ethanol industry representatives, and officials from agriculture, pollution control, and industrial sectors, shared their observations.

Hyderabad: Farmers from Mahbubnagar and Nirmal districts have raised concerns over the impact of ethanol industries on their health and crop yields. They lodged complaints with the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Commission here on Thursday, explaining fears of pollution and its potential to harm local agriculture. Hence, the Commission plans to provide clarity on the issue and recommend actionable solutions.

During an awareness programme on ethanol production and its environmental impact at BRK Bhavan, key stakeholders, including farmers, environmentalists, ethanol industry representatives, and officials from agriculture, pollution control, and industrial sectors, shared their observations.

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Speaking at the event, Farmers Commission Chairman Kodanda Reddy asserted the Commission’s commitment to protecting farmers’ interests. “We have heard both sides – farmers and ethanol industry representatives. While ethanol production brings economic benefits, its environmental impact cannot be ignored. Our primary duty is to ensure farmers’ welfare,” he said.

The Commission announced plans to conduct field visits to affected areas to assess the ground reality and submit a comprehensive report to guide the State government’s decisions on balancing industrial growth with environmental safety. Ethanol industries have been established in Mahbubnagar and Nirmal districts with approvals from the Centre and the State governments. However, local farmers allege that pollution from these industries is already affecting their livelihoods.