Toxic Dump Poisons Wetland Near Farmland

A critical wetland in Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu, has been converted into a landfill for toxic industrial waste. Located near Chappadi on NH 48, this 0.34-hectare site directly abuts the Sinnayan lake, a vital water source for extensive paddy fields and coconut groves. The toxic seepage from the dump poses a severe threat to these agricultural lands and a chain of other lakes that the Sinnayan lake feeds.

Environmental activists warn that when the monsoon arrives, the accumulated toxic waste will leach into groundwater and reverse-flow into the lake and irrigation channels. Authorities, including the Block Development Officer, acknowledge the issue but cite land ownership disputes and jurisdictional challenges, stating the land is privately owned. Despite this, environmental laws prohibit such hazardous dumping even on private property.

Residents and farmers have petitioned the district administration and the Pollution Control Board. The National Green Tribunal has previously cautioned landowners against creating environmental hazards on their property. The continued brazen dumping of industrial waste on this highway-adjacent land underscores significant regulatory lapses and fuels protests against unchecked industrialization near farmlands.