Residents living along the banks of the Karamana River at Mangattukadavu near Perukavu have raised serious concerns over rampant waste dumping into the river. They allege that pollution has worsened over the past year without any permanent intervention from authorities.
Illegal Dumping of Hazardous Waste
According to locals, biomedical waste, plastic materials, and construction debris are being illegally dumped on a private property near the riverbank. During rain, the waste is allegedly washed into the river, polluting the water and creating an unbearable stench in the locality. Residents said the contamination has become a major public health concern for families living nearby.
Investigation and Cleanup Efforts
Following repeated complaints, officials from the health department and local police launched an investigation into the dumping. The health department recently removed part of the accumulated garbage from the site. However, residents alleged that dumping continues unabated despite the cleanup drive.
Fine Imposed on Property Owner
Meanwhile, the Vilavoorkal panchayat on Monday slapped a fine of Rs 50,000 on the property owner. "There has been indiscriminate dumping here for nearly a year. Even hospital waste is being dumped. We have lodged several complaints, but there has been no lasting solution. The river is getting polluted every day," said Rajan KR, a resident of Mangattukadavu.
Jurisdictional Dispute Between Authorities
The issue has exposed differences between the Vilavoorkal panchayat and the irrigation department over responsibility for cleaning the affected stretch. While the irrigation department maintains that waste removal from the private property falls under the panchayat's jurisdiction, the local body reportedly sought coordination from multiple agencies for further action. "We have informed the panchayat about the issue. Preventing illegal dumping and cleaning waste from private land requires coordinated action by the departments concerned," said an irrigation official.
Demands for Strict Action
Residents have demanded strict surveillance, installation of cameras, and legal action against those behind the dumping. They warned that continued pollution could severely impact the fragile ecosystem of the Karamana River and worsen environmental hazards in the area.
