Residents Clash with Police Over Pollution from Slaughterhouse Waste Plant

On October 29, 2025, the district-level facilitation and monitoring committee in Kozhikode, Kerala, was tasked with studying alleged environmental pollution caused by the Ambayathode-based slaughterhouse waste treatment factory. This follows a recent clash between residents and police during a protest march against the plant.

The decision was made at an all-party meeting convened by the District Collector. Considering the residents' demand, the factory will remain closed until further orders. The latest field-level study reports by the Kerala State Pollution Control Board and Suchitwa Mission will also be discussed before giving permission for the factory's reopening.

The clash occurred on October 21 when some action committee members reportedly blocked trucks transporting waste to the treatment facility, alleging it was causing pollution and foul odor. Police intervention led to the use of tear gas, and over 45 activists and officers were injured in the confrontation. The protesters also set fire to a section of the plant and vandalized vehicles.

Residents have long protested the factory's operations, claiming it has been causing groundwater contamination and improper waste disposal. However, the factory management maintains it has been complying with all relevant rules and regulations.