TNPCB directed to act against illegal PVC unit

K Vishnu, a resident of Bharathi Nagar in Kalinkiyam, in his public interest litigation, had sought to seal a PVC pipe manufacturing unit (Annai Pipes and Fittings) operating at Naagarpalayam Main Road for the past four years without permission from State authorities.

He had submitted that the melting of plastic ores had led to the emanation of poisonous gas and foul smell from the outlet.

Besides, there was also noise pollution beyond the permitted decibel levels, he said.

Noting that the District Environmental Engineer, following an inspection, had categorically held that the unit was running without approval from the TNPCB, the petitioner sought for a direction to the pollution control authorities to seal the factory functioning illegally.

However, the division bench comprising Justices S Manikumar and Subramonium Prasad before whom the plea came up said, “Though the petitioner has contended that no action has been taken on his representation, we are not in agreement with the said contention. Based on the complaints dated February 5 and 9, the site has been inspected and the pollution control authorities have found that the said factory has been functioning without approval and therefore show cause notices have been issued.”

Subsequently, the bench disposed the plea after directing the District Environmental Engineer and the TNPCB member secretary to act in accordance with the pollution control laws as to whether the said unit could be allowed to function without any approval.