Sun Apr 13 17:00:13 UTC 2025: ## Chennai’s Incinerator Plans Spark Outrage Amidst Pollution Concerns

**Chennai, April 14, 2025** – The Greater Chennai Corporation’s (GCC) plans to build new large-scale incinerators, including a 2,100-tonne facility near the existing Kodungaiyur dump, are facing fierce opposition from residents, environmental groups, and even some councillors. Concerns are fueled by a recent fact-finding report revealing severe pollution and health hazards caused by a smaller incinerator in Chinna Mathur.

The report, compiled by organizations including the Chennai Climate Action Group (CCAG) and the Centre for Financial Accountability (CFA), found that the Chinna Mathur incinerator operated for years without the necessary permits, resulting in cadmium levels in soil samples 24 times higher than WHO limits. High levels of lead, chlorine, and other pollutants were also detected in soil, air, and water samples. The report further alleges that fly ash, instead of being recycled into paver blocks as claimed, was dumped openly, contaminating surrounding areas.

Residents near the Kodungaiyur incinerator report similar issues, with workers allegedly lacking protective gear and ash particles found on the walls of nearly 10,000 homes. Councillor B. Vimala (CPI-M) highlighted residents’ complaints regarding the incinerator’s emissions and demanded improvements.

While the GCC maintains that the Kodungaiyur incinerator operates with proper permits and that the new facilities will meet international standards, opposition remains strong. Councillors from various parties, including the DMK and MDMK, voiced concerns during the Corporation Budget 2025-26 meeting, urging a focus on source segregation instead of incineration. One councillor likened the plan to “lighting a fire below one’s legs.” The report also highlights that an international company withdrew investment from four Indian cities due to concerns about incineration projects.

The GCC official stated that while source segregation is ideal, full implementation has proven challenging, and until a better alternative is proposed, incinerator plans will continue. The corporation is reportedly planning to restart a defunct pyrolysis plant in the area. However, the findings of the report, along with the mounting public pressure, raise serious questions about the environmental and health implications of the GCC’s waste management strategy. The issue is expected to be further discussed in upcoming meetings between Corporation officials.

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