Zira Liquor Factory closure protest enters 5th year; Next NGT hearing on Sept 11
Ferozepur, July 23, 2026: One of Punjab's longest-running environmental protests entered its fifth year as members of the Sanjha Morcha reaffirmed their resolve to continue their indefinite dharna outside the ethanol plant at Mansurwala village in Zira subdivision until the Punjab Government issues written orders for its permanent closure.
The protest, which began in July 2022, completes four years on July 24, with demonstrators maintaining round-the-clock vigil at the site despite harsh weather conditions, including extreme summer heat, winter cold and heavy monsoon rains.
To mark the occasion, the Morcha is organising an Akhand Path at the protest site. The bhog ceremony on July 24 is expected to draw residents from nearby villages, representatives of social and religious organisations, and leaders of various farmer unions.
Added here, In January 2023, Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann had ordered the closure of the Zira Liquor Factory ( MALBROS International Pvt Ltd) after the villagers of over two dozen villages under the banner of Zira Sanjha Morcha alleged that the liquor making unit was polluting groundwater in several villages and also causing air pollution.
The issue is currently pending before the National Green Tribunal (NGT). He said the protest has remained peaceful in recent months as the Morcha is awaiting the tribunal's final decision. According to him, the next hearing in the case is scheduled for September 11, 2026.
Morcha leader Roman Brar said the agitation is a fight for the health and future of coming generations. "Our demand has always been the permanent closure of the ethanol plant. Despite repeated assurances, the government has not issued any written notification, forcing us to continue our peaceful protest," he said, adding that the movement is aimed at safeguarding public health, clean drinking water and the environment for future generations.
Earlier, besides seeking the permanent closure of the plant, the protesters have demanded compensation for families who allegedly lost loved ones due to illnesses linked to contaminated groundwater. They had also sought legal action against the plant management, establishment of a multispeciality hospital in the affected area, and a special relief package for villages where groundwater quality has allegedly deteriorated.