NGT team to inspect Sterlite factory today

Thoothukudi Collector Sandeep Nanduri said the expert committee also comprising Satish C Garkoti, scientist, Ministry of Environment and Forests, HD Varalaxmi from Regional Directorate of Central Pollution Control Board, was earlier scheduled to inspect the plant last week but it got delayed to unforeseen circumstances. 

The panel would inspect Sterlite plant at 8 am on Sunday and convene a public hearing at 11.30 am at Tamil Nadu Polytechnic college, Palayamkottai road, where the people can air their opinions on the plant either orally or by submitting petitions. The gathering would last for two hours and the team would later leave for Chennai and convene another meeting in the city at 10 am. 

Adequate police force would be deployed at the venue and people from villages surrounding Sterlite, representative of traders associations, concerned parties and interveners concerning the Sterlite case can attend the meeting. 

During inspection, only officials from Departments of Pollution Control Board, Revenue and Police would accompany the team. Vaiko, general secretary, MDMK and members of anti-Sterlite Movement were also present during the inspection at copper slag dump site.