Install CCTV cameras to stop waste dumping: Kovur residents

“Initially, we thought that the sacks contained expired medicines but on closer examination, they were found to be cosmetic products and even thermocol,” said Pughazh, an activist. “We have registered a complaint about this with the local body officials but they are yet to inspect the place,” he added.

The neighbourhood, including Kundrathur, Vandalur, and Perungudi, needs CCTV cameras as medical wastes are often dumped at these places, he said, adding that the residents were unable to find a permanent solution.

The residents complained that the local body officials inspect and clear the area only after reports appear on newspapers. Though local body officials clean the place temporarily, the situation continues as trucks continue dumping or burning the biomedical waste in the area, the residents worried.

“The medical waste gets mixed with the water and we see cattle and dogs drinking it. Even if we chase them away, they always return for water and food. Hence, the only solution will be to install CCTV cameras so that it will be easy to identigy and nab culprits,” said Vishwanathan P, a resident of Kovur.

When contacted, a senior TNPCB official said, “We inspect the place after receiving complaints from the public. Soon, there will be a permanent solution to the issue and we are also taking steps to install CCTV cameras near waterbodies and highways.”