After Timeline Report, Factory Ordered To Shut Over Pollution Complaint In Kasaragod
Kasaragod: Days after residents of Ananthapuram raised concerns over alleged industrial pollution through Timeline Daily, authorities have ordered the temporary suspension of operations at M/S Komban Lubes, citing complaints over possible pollution of drinking water sources and public health concerns.
Timeline had earlier reported and has done a detailed video on the concerns of residents who alleged that a persistent chemical odour from industrial units in the area was affecting their daily lives, with families claiming that they were struggling with breathing difficulties, sleep disturbance, headaches and other health issues.
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Following the report, locals and representatives continued to raise their concerns before authorities. The issue was taken up by officials, leading to a joint inspection in the area under the direction of the Kasaragod District Collector.
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According to an order issued by Puthige Grama Panchayat, a joint inspection was conducted by officials from the Kerala State Pollution Control Board, Kerala Water Authority, Puthige Grama Panchayat, District Medical Officer and health officials, under the leadership of the Manager of the Kasaragod District Industrial Development Centre.
The inspection was carried out based on complaints that drinking water sources of residents in Ananthapuram were being polluted.
Following the inspection report submitted to the District Collector, M/S Komban Lubes has been ordered to temporarily suspend operations in view of public health protection, the Panchayat order stated.
The order, issued under provisions of the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, including Section 233A (3), also warned that strict legal action would be initiated if the suspension order was violated.
Residents had earlier alleged that the strong odour from industrial activity had made life difficult in the locality, claiming that people were waking up at night feeling suffocated.
They also alleged that children and elderly residents were experiencing health issues, including breathing difficulties and throat irritation.
Along with air pollution concerns, residents had raised fears over drinking water safety.
Ananthapuram ward member Sateeshan had alleged that industrial waste discharge could be affecting borewell water sources used by residents.
Residents welcomed the temporary suspension order but said that a detailed scientific investigation into air and water quality is needed to identify the source of the problem and ensure a permanent solution.
