A foul stench pervades almost a kilometer-long stretch of the Madurai–Trichy national highway from Othakadai Junction past Pandi Kovil Junction to Karrupayurani Junction. The odor emanates from waste, particularly meat, dumped on both sides of the road, along with construction and demolition (C&D) debris, plastic, and packaging materials.
Partial Cleanup Efforts
Following complaints from residents and commuters, the Madurai corporation initiated a drive to clean the mess on the highway. However, the job was not fully completed. While waste from one side of the road was removed, the majority of the refuse dumped on the other side of the divider was left untouched.
Apart from food packaging materials, C&D waste, and plastic, a large amount of meat waste, including chicken wings and other parts, was found spread across the area. Residents report that such waste is constantly being dumped, and regular cleaning is not carried out.
Resident Concerns
R Selvi, a local resident, stated that the waste includes rotten meat, leaving a constant foul smell in the area. “We’re not sure where the waste is coming from, but it keeps accumulating and is only cleared after multiple complaints,” she said.
Official Response
A senior corporation official said that regular garbage collection and cleaning drives are undertaken in the area. “We are investigating the source of the meat waste dumping issue and will soon resolve the matter,” the official said, adding that fines will be imposed based on the findings.
