The Kerala High Court recently convened a special session to address two pressing public health concerns: a food poisoning incident at an Anganwadi in Ponnuruni, Ernakulam, and the illegal dumping of biomedical waste from Kerala into Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district.
Food Poisoning at Ponnuruni Anganwadi
The court took suo motu cognizance of reports detailing a food poisoning episode at the Ponnuruni East Anganwadi, where 12 children and one staff member exhibited symptoms such as vomiting and stomach discomfort after consuming 'upma,' a semolina-based dish. Preliminary investigations suggest that contaminated water, possibly sourced from a tank adjacent to a polluted canal, was used in food preparation.
During the session, the court observed that the drainage system near the Anganwadi was filled with waste, potentially contributing to the contamination. The Kochi Corporation's standing counsel informed the court of ongoing efforts to identify the causes of both the food poisoning and the waste accumulation in the drainage system.
The court directed the Secretary of the Kochi Corporation to submit a detailed affidavit outlining the measures being implemented to clean the drainage and prevent future waste accumulation. Additionally, the court appointed an amicus curiae to visit the site, assess the situation, and provide a comprehensive report.
Illegal Biomedical Waste Dumping in Tirunelveli
In a related matter, the court addressed reports of biomedical waste from Kerala being illegally dumped in multiple locations within Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district. Items such as syringes, personal protective equipment (PPE) kits, and medical documents were found discarded, raising significant environmental and public health concerns.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had previously intervened, directing the Kerala government to retrieve the waste by December 23, 2024. In compliance, a team led by an Assistant Collector oversaw the removal of the waste from the affected sites in Tamil Nadu, facilitating its return to Kerala. The court was informed that six criminal cases have been registered in connection with the illegal dumping, resulting in the arrest of three individuals from Kerala.
Expressing serious concern, the court described the situation as "alarming" and emphasized the necessity for stringent monitoring of waste disposal practices. The Secretary of the Local Self Government Department was instructed to file an affidavit by January 10, detailing the agencies involved in waste collection and disposal from local authorities and bulk waste generators, such as hospitals. The affidavit should also outline the measures in place to track and regulate the disposal methods employed by these agencies to prevent future incidents of illegal dumping.
Court's Ongoing Oversight
These issues were addressed by a special bench established following a significant fire at the Brahmapuram waste treatment plant in March 2023, which burned for 12 days before being extinguished. Since then, the bench has been actively monitoring waste management practices within the state to ensure compliance with environmental standards and the protection of public health.
The court's proactive stance in these matters underscores its commitment to addressing environmental hazards and safeguarding public health. By demanding detailed reports and holding relevant authorities accountable, the court aims to prevent the recurrence of such incidents and promote effective waste management practices across the state.
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