TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thousands of people rallied on Thursday, July 23, 2015, rejecting the establishment of a cement plant by PT Sahabat Mulia Sakti, a subsidiary of PT Indocement, in Pati, Central Java. They blockaded roads in the Pati-Kudus Java North Coast track, at the Sukokulon village, Margorejo, Pati.

The rally which began at 9am and paralyzed the northern coast line for hours. The situation heated up before the masses voluntarily disband at 3:23pm.

Representatives of the residents, who call themselves South Pati Community Alliance, said the rally to protest Pati Regent’s policy. "We've been very tired waiting for the Regent to meet citizens," said Madris, from Ngeben village, Tambakromo.

The anger stems from Regent Haryanto’s decision to issue an environmental permit for the establishment of a cement factory in the district Sukolilo, Tambakromo, and Kayen, Pati regency, on December 8, 2014. People considered Haryanto had ignored their aspirations in a session that addresses the environmental impact assessment (EIA). In the trial, the Alliance claims more than half of Pati residents rejected the cement plant.

Separately, Head of Pati Environment Agency Purwadi said the licensing for the cement plant is part of the government’s efforts to develop the potential of the Pati. "So do not expect the rally can revoke the regent’s decision," he said. Purwadi suggested the people to sue the permit issuance through the courts.

FARAH FUADONA