Kerala PCB Orders Immediate Closure of Poultry Waste Plant

Authorities in Kerala have ordered the immediate closure of a poultry waste rendering unit located at Ambayathode, near Thamarassery in Kozhikode. The Kerala State Pollution Control Board issued the directive on Wednesday, citing repeated public complaints about pollution and the unit's ongoing environmental impact on nearby residential areas. This action follows numerous regulatory interventions and violations by the Freshcut facility.

The closure marks the culmination of a six-year agitation by local residents. Protests had intensified over the years, with residents alleging foul odors, water contamination, and public health concerns. The plant, operational since 2014, had been a focal point of controversy and demonstrations, even leading to violent clashes between protesters and police last year. Despite previous attempts to resume operations under restrictions, opposition remained strong.

The recent order was issued after the company failed to comply with conditions set in August 2025 and a December 2024 directive. A public grievance regarding the plant's operations post-stormwater damage was also considered. While residents expressed delight, the company indicated it would pursue legal challenges against the closure order.