Has the NGT taken action against pollution from a waste treatment plant in Kerala?
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Synopsis
The NGT's recent suo motu action against pollution allegations from a waste treatment plant in Kerala highlights pressing environmental concerns. Residents' complaints of foul odors and water contamination have prompted the tribunal to take significant steps. This ongoing saga raises questions about regulatory compliance and the health of local communities.
Key Takeaways
- NGT has taken suo motu action on pollution claims.
- Residents report serious health and environmental issues.
- Facility has been shut down amidst public protests.
- Key government bodies have been involved in the proceedings.
- Next hearing scheduled for January 29, 2026.
New Delhi, Dec 4 (NationPress) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has initiated suo motu cognisance in response to a report that raises serious concerns about air and water pollution attributed to a waste treatment facility in Kozhikode district of Kerala.
A bench led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, along with Expert Members Dr. A. Senthil Vel and Dr. Afroz Ahmad, observed that the article titled “A fire that fails to die down,” published on November 7, brings to light significant environmental challenges.
The facility, known as M/s Fresh Cut Organic Products Private Limited located at Ambayathode in Kattippara Panchayat, processes poultry waste for pet food and has a capacity of 25 tonnes per day.
Local residents have reported intolerable smells, pollution of a major river supplying drinking water, and an increase in skin ailments and allergies in the vicinity.
Although the plant asserts compliance with regulations, it is currently closed due to community protests, and had previously received clearance from the district-level Facilitation Committee based on inspections by the Pollution Control Board (PCB).
“The news report raises crucial questions about adherence to environmental standards and the execution of relevant legal provisions,” the NGT bench noted, citing breaches of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the Water Act, 1974, and the Air Act, 1981.
The NGT has chosen to commence suo motu proceedings and has involved the Kerala State Pollution Control Board, the District Magistrate of Kozhikode, the Central Pollution Control Board, and the Regional Office of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change as respondents.
A notice has been dispatched to all parties, instructing them to submit their responses via affidavit to the Southern Zonal Bench at least one week prior to the next hearing.
Recognizing the jurisdiction of the Southern Zonal Bench, the tribunal has ordered the case to be transferred to NGT Chennai along with the original documentation. The case is scheduled to be heard again on January 29, 2026.
Point of View
The NGT's proactive stance on environmental issues demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding public health and ecological integrity. This case underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and community involvement in environmental governance, vital for a sustainable future.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NGT?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a specialized judicial body in India that deals with environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources.
What prompted the NGT to take action?
The NGT acted upon a news report alleging severe air and water pollution from a waste treatment plant in Kozhikode, Kerala.
What are the main concerns raised by residents?
Residents have reported disturbing odors, contamination of drinking water sources, and increased health issues such as skin diseases and allergies.
What actions has the NGT taken?
The NGT has initiated suo motu proceedings, involving multiple governmental bodies, and has ordered responses to the allegations.
When is the next hearing scheduled?
The next hearing is set for January 29, 2026, at the Southern Zonal Bench in Chennai.
