India, April 26 -- Tension prevailed in Kutra block in Odisha's Sundargarh district after villagers of Uparbahal detained around 20 trucks loaded with industrial ash late at night, alleging illegal dumping in their area and severe environmental pollution.

The incident took place under Khatkurbahal panchayat, where locals intercepted the vehicles and accused industries of disposing of waste ash in nearby locations, including Dungleipahad, Gherapahad, and areas near the local health centre.

Rs 20 lakh pond allegedly buried under industrial waste Villagers alleged that a pond constructed at a cost of Rs 20 lakh under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has been filled with industrial ash, defeating the pur...