PCB Demands Details on Units Without Wastewater Treatment Near Thevara-Perandoor Canal

Quick Summary

• The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (PCB) has asked the Kochi Corporation for details of apartment complexes and commercial units near the Thevara-Perandoor canal violating wastewater management norms.
• Initially, 72 units near the Thevara-Perandoor and Edappally canals were issued notices for lack of adequate wastewater treatment facilities.
• Some apartment owner associations highlighted further violations during their submissions to the PCB.
• PCB directed Kerala State Electricity Board to disconnect power supply to these 72 non-compliant buildings, though representatives from over 40 units requested more time to achieve compliance.
• Additional inspections by Kochi Corporation’s health wing revealed ongoing lapses,and further action will be taken based on their report.

Indian Opinion Analysis

This situation underscores a critical challenge in enforcing environmental regulations amidst urban growth in India. While the PCB’s actions demonstrate proactive intervention to curb pollution, apparent delays in compliance highlight gaps in awareness or preparedness among property owners. Dependency on authorities like the electricity board for enforcement may signal insufficient incentives or penalties to drive swift adherence.

For Kochi-a city grappling with rapid urbanization-effective wastewater management is essential not only for public health but also ecological protection of vital waterways like canals. If immediate corrective measures are taken alongside consistent monitoring, this enforcement action could set an exmaple across other districts in Kerala and perhaps inspire similar efforts nationwide.

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