Some residents of Ndam village in Nnobi community, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, have been forced to abandon their homes due to the pollution caused by the newly established Seaman Rice Mill.
The villagers have expressed their concerns about the rice mill being located in their residential area, as it has resulted in a foul smell and the emission of harmful black smoke that has engulfed the entire vicinity.
Mr. John Enwedo, the spokesperson for the affected families, shared in an interview with journalists that the rice mill was set up in the area last year.
However, since its operation began, the factory has been releasing thick, dark smoke that has covered their entire community.
This has led to various health issues among the residents, including itching eyes and body rashes.
Additionally, the constant noise generated by the factory has made it difficult for the villagers to sleep peacefully.
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The detrimental effects of the pollution have been particularly severe for Mr. Enwedo’s elderly mother, who has been falling sick frequently and has developed rashes all over her body.
The residents of Ndam village are deeply concerned about the negative impact of the rice mill on their health and well-being.
The houses in this area are no longer habitable due to the pollution caused by the milling machine.
The soot emitted by the machine has covered the entire environment, making it impossible to keep water clean and usable.
Even rainwater collected from the roof is contaminated with the black soot. Additionally, the noise generated by the machine is preventing people from getting any sleep, forcing them to abandon their homes.
The residents are appealing to the governor of Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, to intervene and address this issue.
They believe that this type of factory should not be located in a residential area and question whether an environmental impact assessment was conducted prior to its establishment.
The chairman of Seaman Rice Mill, Mr Emeka Agbanari, acknowledged the complaint and assured that the matter was being resolved. He explained that the machines were still being tested and that efforts were underway to fix the problem with the assistance of the machine installers.
