Operation Kala Pani: Amroha villagers allege factory pollution behind cancer, chronic illness, and deaths

Residents living in the surroundings of Jubilant Ingrevia's integrated manufacturing complex in Gajraula claim that toxic emissions from industries and contaminated ground water have triggered major diseases, blindness and fatal cancers in the neighbouring villages.

As per field reporting by a special investigative team of Zee Media under Operation Kala Pani, the drinking water samples from the handpumps in the area are sent for independent testing to the ITS laboratory.

Gajraula believes seven deaths in seven years

In a house located only 100 metres away from the manufacturing complex, family members displayed the pictures of the relatives who died and said that the industrial waste is responsible for decimating the water quality and giving rise to fatal cancers and tuberculosis.

Seven deaths: One villager recalled losing three younger brothers and one sister’s daughter-in-law, his nephew, daughter and both parents, that made a total of seven deaths within seven years.

Widespread grief: Another villager claimed that many of his relatives have turned ill after drinking local water, thus almost all families have their members becoming chronic patients. Residents of the neighbouring houses have displayed pictures of their deceased relatives, demanding a serious scientific and epidemiological investigation.

The dark yellow water: Pollution of groundwater in 20 villages

20 villages surround the Gajraula industrial zone, and Naipura, Sawajpur Dor, Sadelapur, Baseli and Tigaria are the worst affected.

The villagers claim that the handpumps release foul-smelling and discolored water:

No source: An elderly woman said the water turns completely yellow and causes instant physical pain. The locals drink the water, as they do not have an alternative supply.

Serious medical concerns: Local residents report an increase in the number of people suffering from cancer, kidney stones, severe abdominal pain, and visual deterioration due to industrial waste affecting the groundwater.

Contagious diseases: The villagers claim that the chronic disease affects almost every second household i.e. skin diseases, tuberculosis, and respiratory problems.

This claim is supported by Dr. D.S. Harsh, who says that he treats many patients suffering from breathing and eye problems in that area.

A factory worker confirmed that he suffers from eye irritation because of unsafe water in the region.

What is manufactured at Gajraula production facility?

Jubilant Ingrevia is an integrated plant in Gajraula producing specialty chemicals and chemical intermediates, the production of which must comply with environmental requirements to avoid any consequences.

Villagers stated they have complained for years about pungent gas leaks, foul odors, and deteriorating groundwater without lasting relief. To independently verify their claims, the Zee Media reporting team collected multiple water samples directly from affected village sources and submitted them to ITS Laboratory, where chemical and toxicological results are currently awaited.

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