Nalagarh API pharma pollution protest: Over 1,000 Villagers Rally Against Ferment Plant in Baddi
Solan/Shimla, March 24,
Over 1,000 villagers protest against the Nalagarh API pharma unit, alleging groundwater contamination, toxic air pollution, and excessive water use near the Chikni river.
The protest, largely led by women and organised by the Ferment Workers Struggle Committee, Handur Environment Friend Organization and Him Parivesh Sanstha, saw demonstrators raising slogans and demanding the immediate closure of the unit. Locals alleged that the plant, which began operations in 2024, has led to contamination of groundwater and the spread of a persistent foul odour that travels up to 4–5 kilometres, making it difficult for residents to breathe and forcing many to keep their homes shut.
Naresh Ghai, Secretary of the Ferment Workers Struggle Committee, said the situation has worsened in recent months, with the stench becoming unbearable and affecting normal life. He also pointed to a recent incident where a company tanker was allegedly caught transporting untreated wastewater, leading to a fine of Rs 22 lakh and the registration of an FIR. Adding to the concerns, villagers claimed that dead fish were found in a nearby river, raising fears of ecological damage linked to industrial discharge.
The issue of water usage has emerged as a central concern, with protesters questioning how the plant is managing its operations with a permitted consumption of only 6.71 kilolitres per day. In a memorandum submitted to Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, they raised doubts over whether the unit is extracting water beyond approved limits and, if so, from where. The factory’s proximity to the Chikni River, which supports nearly 16 government drinking water and irrigation schemes catering to Nalagarh town and surrounding villages, has intensified fears of a looming water crisis.
Residents also reported a sharp decline in groundwater levels since the plant became operational, with several hand pumps and wells running dry or nearing depletion. They warned that continued extraction and possible contamination could severely impact drinking water availability in the region. Environmental groups have demanded a thorough investigation into the plant’s water usage, its impact on the Chikni River, and the functioning of the Jal Shakti Department in monitoring such activities.
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The API unit, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of efforts to strengthen domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing, is now at the centre of a growing controversy, with activists alleging that regulatory relaxations may have been granted at the cost of environmental safeguards. As anger builds on the ground, protesters have warned of intensified agitation if their demands are not addressed, turning the Nalagarh issue into a significant test of governance, environmental compliance and industrial accountability in Himachal Pradesh.
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