Thu Jan 02 09:02:42 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Criticized by NGT for Biomedical Waste Dumping in Tamil Nadu
**Chennai, January 2, 2025** – The Southern bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) severely reprimanded Kerala authorities for their inaction regarding the illegal dumping of biomedical and mixed solid waste from Kerala into Tamil Nadu. During a hearing on Thursday, the bench highlighted Kerala’s insufficient response to the issue, criticizing the state’s report on waste removal as lacking crucial details on the quantity of waste removed from Tirunelveli district.
The NGT noted that while show-cause notices were issued to several institutions, including the Regional Cancer Centre, Credence Multispecialty Family Hospital, and Leela Kovalam resort, little to no action followed, except for a response from Credence. The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) described the issued notices as an “eyewash,” a sentiment echoed by the NGT’s frustration with the lack of decisive action.
The bench expressed particular concern over the involvement of IMAGE, Kerala’s sole authorized biomedical waste handler, in a high-level meeting convened to address the issue. The NGT questioned whether the Kerala government was colluding with the alleged violator and directed the state’s Environment Secretary to submit a report clarifying IMAGE’s role. The bench also questioned why IMAGE hadn’t received a show-cause notice despite its involvement.
The NGT suggested that Kerala explore partnerships with authorized waste management agencies in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to avoid the current monopolistic situation. The Tribunal emphasized that issuing show-cause notices is insufficient and demanded a thorough investigation leading to concrete action against the violators. The bench even suggested halting the operations of non-healthcare facilities involved until investigations are complete.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) was also directed to expedite the release of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for handling biomedical waste to prevent future interstate dumping. Further highlighting the severity of the situation, the Tamil Nadu government reported a separate incident of waste dumping in Kanniyakumari district.
The NGT adjourned the hearing until January 20, 2025, warning of stringent action against Kerala and Tamil Nadu if satisfactory progress is not demonstrated. The Tribunal urged both states to take immediate action: Kerala to halt the flow of waste and Tamil Nadu to enhance border monitoring.
First Piper 