Abattoir waste in canals chokes Kadavallur, triggers health concerns

Perumpilavu: The discharge of abattoir waste into the Kadavallur polders, which flows through various canals into populated areas, has become a major public nuisance. People in the locality complain that the stench from the rotting waste is so overpowering that they are unable to step out of their homes. The situation has also led to an alarming increase in houseflies and other insects, triggering fears of a potential epidemic outbreak.

The waste, consisting of meat remnants and septage, is being dumped directly into the paddy fields along the State Highway. Following repeated complaints from farmers, the District Collector had ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in the area six months ago. The panchayat allocated ₹3 lakh for the project and handed over the funds to the Electronics Wing of the Public Works Department. Although the tender process was completed, the cameras are yet to be installed.

While official inaction continues on one end, antisocial elements persist in dumping waste into the fields without interruption. On the Collector’s intervention, the police had stepped up patrolling in the area, briefly bringing the situation under control. However, as surveillance gradually declined, the issue resurfaced and has grown worse.

Farmers have warned that they may be forced to abandon farming altogether if the issue is not addressed urgently.