Severe industrial pollution has turned parts of Jaggayyapeta in Krishna district into a danger zone, as contaminated groundwater and toxic air emissions continue to affect thousands of residents. Water drawn from the ground appears in unusual colours, including yellow, milky white, and dark shades. Local people say the pollution spreads silently, often during late-night hours, leaving families exposed without warning.
Industrial Waste Seeping Into the Ground
The situation remains alarming in and around the Jaggayyapeta Autonagar area, where nearly seven industries operate. These include pharma units, chemical factories, and companies that extract oil from discarded tyres. As per rules, industries must treat wastewater before disposal. However, locals allege that many units ignore this process to reduce costs.
Instead of proper treatment, companies reportedly use a method known as reverse boring. Through this method, toxic liquid waste goes directly back into the ground. These chemicals then spread through underground layers, slowly contaminating nearby areas. As a result, groundwater within a two-kilometre radius has become unsafe for use.
Residential Areas Turn Into Danger Zones
Several colonies around Autonagar now face a serious risk. These include Sharemohammad Peta, Shanti Nagar, Dange Nagar, Vishnupriya Nagar, DVR Nagar, RTC Colony, and Tirumalagiri. Nearly 15,000 residents live in these localities. Many families struggle daily due to polluted water and foul air.
Residents say the problem worsens after midnight. Industries allegedly release thick chemical smoke into the air during late hours. People wake up gasping for breath, and some report burning sensations in the eyes and throat. The polluted air leaves no escape, even inside homes.
Health Problems on the Rise
Health issues have increased sharply in the affected areas. Locals complain of breathing disorders, kidney-related problems, and long-term skin diseases. Doctors in nearby hospitals confirm a steady rise in pollution-linked illnesses. Animals have also suffered. Several cows, buffaloes, goats, dogs, and other animals have died due to prolonged exposure to toxic water and air.
Officials Accused of Inaction
Despite repeated complaints, residents accuse authorities of ignoring the crisis. People have submitted dozens of petitions to pollution control officials. Teams visit occasionally, collect water samples, and then leave. However, residents say officials never shared test reports publicly.
Victims allege that industrial owners influence officials, which prevents strict action. Even elected representatives have failed to provide lasting solutions. As conditions worsen, locals urge authorities to act immediately before the situation turns irreversible.
For the people of Jaggayyapeta, pollution is no longer an invisible threat. It has entered their water, air, and daily lives, demanding urgent attention and accountability.
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