Kerala Poultry-Waste Unit May Relocate Amidst Public Protests
A poultry-waste rendering factory in Kozhikode, Kerala, is considering relocation due to sustained public protests and environmental concerns. The Kerala State Pollution Control Board had previously issued a closure order, which the factory had challenged.
Key takeaways
- A poultry-waste processing plant in Kozhikode, Kerala, is considering relocation due to prolonged public opposition.
- Protests cite concerns over foul odours, water contamination, and public health risks associated with the facility.
- Official reports and mediation efforts are underway to facilitate the potential move of the factory.
- The plant has been the subject of controversy and protests for over five years.
The management of the Freshcut poultry-waste rendering factory in Ambayathode, Kozhikode district, Kerala, is actively exploring options to move its operations to a different location. This consideration follows significant public protests and a closure order from the Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB).
What Happened
Residents in Ambayathode and surrounding areas have been protesting the waste treatment facility, which began operations in 2014. Protesters cite foul odours, contamination of local water sources, and public health threats as primary concerns. Agitations have persisted for over five years, with recent protests resuming after the factory management obtained a stay against the KSPCB's closure order. Local leaders and government officials are mediating discussions between the factory management and protest groups aimed at facilitating a relocation.
Background
The waste treatment facility has been a focal point of controversy and demonstrations for more than five years. The situation escalated last year when protests turned violent, leading to injuries among protesters and police, as well as damage to the plant and vehicles through arson. A report by the District Collector and KSPCB officials, compiled after a site visit ordered by the Kerala High Court, has reportedly recommended relocation as the definitive solution to public grievances.
Key Facts
- The Freshcut poultry-waste rendering factory is located in Ambayathode, Kozhikode district, Kerala.
- The waste treatment facility commenced operations in 2014.
- Public protests against the factory have been ongoing for over five years.
- The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) issued a closure order for the facility.
- The factory management had secured a stay order against the KSPCB's closure notice.
- A report by the District Collector and KSPCB officials recommended relocating the factory.
- Local representatives, including MLAs P. K. Firoz and C. K. Kassim, have expressed solidarity with protesters.
- Residents have alleged foul odours and contamination of water sources, posing health risks.
- Previous protests in the past year resulted in violence, injuries, and property damage.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
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