Public Demand for Relocation of Niglok Silicon Factory, Ruksin Circle: A Comprehensive Study of Environmental, Health and Psychological Impacts

Abstract

Industrial growth in Northeast India has been encouraged as part of a larger economic development agenda. However, the establishment of the silicon processing factory at Niglok Industrial Growth Centre in Ruksin Circle of East Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh, has raised widespread concerns among local residents. Communities living in Niglok, Ralung, Ngorlung, Lingka and adjoining villages have repeatedly expressed fear that the factory’s emissions, waste and operational activities pose significant risks to public health, agricultural productivity, biodiversity and the overall quality of life. The demand for shifting the factory to a safer location—away from dense human habitation—has intensified through public meetings, student union representations and civil society mobilizations. This research article analyzes the root causes of public concern, investigates the potential and perceived hazards of silicon waste and examines how environmental changes influence the psychological well-being of people living in the region. Using a qualitative, multi-source approach, this study provides a comprehensive assessment of the interactions between industrial activity, human health, community psychology, environmental sustainability and public policy. The article concludes that despite possible economic benefits, the factory’s current location is unsuitable due to ecological sensitivity, proximity to settlements and the absence of pollution mitigation measures. Recommendations include strict environmental auditing, transparent community engagement and relocation of the factory to an approved industrial site.