Bhubaneswar, Dec. 6 -- Rayagada's Muniguda block has come under the scanner following allegations that an illegal stone crusher has been functioning for nearly one-and-a-half years without securing mandatory approvals. The unit, reportedly established by a private firm named Iron Triangular during the Railways Department's third-line expansion project, has continued operations even after the expiry of its Pollution Control Board clearance.

Residents of Deokupali village under Kumuda panchayat said routine blasting at the quarry has disrupted their sleep, while dust and smoke regularly blanket nearby homes and roads.

"When they operate the crusher, the dust enters the village, making it difficult to breathe," a local villager said.

Farm...