Residents rue burning of plastics but TNPCB asks for photo evidence

Though several complaints have been given to Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), no action has been taken against the industries.

“The factories dump plastic waste adjacent to their compound walls and burn them. This has become a daily issue and is causing many health problems for residents. When we questioned them regarding the issue, they said that it is just plastic waste and does not harm anyone,” Pugazhvendhan V, a resident of Thirumudivakkam Main Road, said. He added that they are tired of giving complaints to the officials. “They promise to take action against, but nothing has changed,” Pugazhvendhan said.

The public also complained that they have requested the industries to stop burning waste but their concerns are being ignored. “We are forced to stay indoors and to close all windows and doors to avoid smoke coming inside the house. Children and elders are suffering from respiratory problems. We have two garbage bins at both corners of the street, but still, they don’t throw the waste in the bin,” said Pradeesh K, another resident. Speaking to DT Next, Gokuldas, joint chief environment engineer, TNPCB, said, “In such cases, the public can take pictures and send them to us and immediate actions will be taken. We would give a warning to the company and if they continue to do so, there will be a penalty against the company.”