Erode West MLA inspects tanneries in Suryampalayam at midnight

Erode West MLA Anand Mohan conducted a midnight inspection of tanneries in the Suryampalayam area following reports that untreated effluents were being discharged into a watercourse. The inspection was carried out amid a strong, foul odour resembling toxic gas.
Taking advantage of the heavy flow of rainwater in the watercourse, some tanneries allegedly discharged untreated waste into it at around 1.15 a.m. after midnight. On receiving information about the incident, the MLA got off a train and proceeded directly to Suryampalayam to inspect the site.
During the inspection, the suspected discharge was recorded using a GPS-enabled camera, and samples were collected from the wastewater flowing into the watercourse. The owners of the concerned tanneries were summoned to the spot and questioned. While some owners denied the allegations, a few factory managers reportedly admitted to the discharge.
The inspection continued at successive tanneries until 3 a.m., despite the strong, foul odour. Several people reportedly experienced dizziness, vomiting and eye irritation during the inspection.
The matter was brought to the attention of Environment Minister Rajeev. Videos recorded during the inspection were also shared with Erode district environmental officials for further action.
Demand for a common effluent treatment plant
Residents have expressed concern over the possible health consequences of untreated industrial effluents, including cancer and kidney-related
ailments.
Against this backdrop, MLA Anand Mohan has raised the need for a Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) in the Assembly to prevent dyeing and industrial effluents from entering rivers and other water bodies. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed facility is reportedly
ready.
A survey on cancer and kidney-related illnesses in Erode has also been conducted, according to the information provided.
The MLA has also reportedly been extending financial assistance from his personal funds to some affected families to meet medical expenses and pay the school and college fees of their children.