Deputy Mayor Flags Severe Waste Management Issues at Vellakkal Dump Yard
Madurai deputy mayor T Nagarajan has strongly criticised private contractors and civic authorities over the deplorable waste management situation at the Vellakkal dump yard. During an inspection on Friday, he highlighted multiple systemic failures that have led to unbearable living conditions for nearby residents.
Health and Safety Hazards
Following complaints from Pamban Nagar residents about terrible odour, mosquitoes, pest infestations, and severe illness, Nagarajan visited the site. He noted that many families are forced to leave their homes during the rainy season due to the unlivable conditions. The inspection revealed that the private firm awarded a multi-crore waste management contract in November 2022 is operating in complete violation of its terms. Instead of using waste segregation machinery, the company relies heavily on around 100 labourers working under highly perilous conditions, alongside a subcontracted firm. This arrangement costs the Madurai corporation over Rs 62,000 daily just to clear pathways at Vellakkal.
Recyclable Waste Mismanagement
Nagarajan pointed out that there is no segregation of recyclable waste at the dump yard. The recyclable waste should be sold and the proceeds transferred to the corporation, but unknown parties are profiting by selling waste illegally. He further accused the contractor of manipulating waste weight by mixing stones and soil.
Structural and Human Rights Violations
A structural breach in the compound wall has left the site unsecured, allowing around 150 scavengers, including children, to risk their lives while collecting waste without any protective gear. Nagarajan termed this a human rights and health violation, as unprotected workers and children are exposed to hazardous stench.
Sewage Treatment Plant Issues
After inspecting the 125 MLD sewage treatment plant (STP) near Vellakkal, Nagarajan found it operating at only about 20% capacity. Treated sewage water is being released along with untreated sewage, rendering the STP completely useless. Additionally, treated water mixed with sewage is being used to irrigate a spinach garden, posing health risks.
Official Response
A senior corporation official stated that several projects are underway to improve waste segregation and composting outside Vellakkal. Once completed, waste going to the dump yard will be sorted. The official also assured that the broken compound wall will be repaired and fogging drives intensified to control mosquito breeding. At the STP, treated water will be diverted to flow separately, and untreated water will be blocked from entering the garden. The capacity of water entering the STP will be gradually increased to achieve full operation.
