16:43, 5 October 2013

Vladikavkaz: picketers demand to stop "Electrozink"

A picket dated to another anniversary of a powerful emission of sulphur from the metallurgical factory "Electrozink" was held today in Vladikavkaz. The protesters demanded to close the factory, since it damages the environment and human health.

On October 5, 2009, the "Electrozink" had a major accident that caused a mass one-time emission of sulphur dioxide. Then, many residents of Vladikavkaz for a long time complained of headaches and congested throat.

The today's picket was attended by 40 people who held posters reading: "We demand to close 'Electrozink'!" and "Stop chemical genocide!" Besides, the protesters brought black balloons with them symbolizing mourning, the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent reports.

According to Ruslan Laliev, the organizer of the picket, the very fact that a metallurgical factory is located inside the city, it is a big minus for Vladikavkaz and for the republic as a whole.

"The factory is violating the environmental legislation; it pollutes the air; which is especially bad for North Ossetia – a section of the 'Golden Ring' of the tourist cluster," he said.

Author: Emma Marzoeva

Source: CK correspondent