Vizianagaram, June 24: Tensions flared in Mentada mandal of Vizianagaram district on Monday as residents of Birasadavalasa village staged a protest against a nearby poultry farm, alleging it was posing serious health hazards. The villagers locked the local tahsildar office, disrupting its functioning for several hours.
Led by concerned locals, the protestors staged a sit-in at the main gate of the office, demanding that the poultry farm either be shut down or relocated. According to the villagers, unbearable foul smells, unhygienic practices, and improper disposal of poultry waste have made life difficult in the area.
“The stench is constant. We can’t even sit inside our homes peacefully. Dead chickens are dumped out in the open, and it’s attracting stray dogs. It’s becoming unsafe for our children and elders,” said one of the protestors.
Tahsildar Arunakumari and her staff were left stranded outside the locked office while Mandal Parishad Development Officer (MPDO) Bhanumurthy arrived to pacify the agitating villagers. The protest was called off temporarily after officials assured immediate action.
However, villagers have warned that the protests will intensify if their concerns are not addressed swiftly and adequately.
As poultry continues to be a vital rural livelihood, this incident underscores the growing need for stricter hygiene compliance, responsible waste management, and stronger communication between poultry operators and local communities.