White froth in Kalachal thodu in Kochi triggers concern

Apprehension over alleged dumping of effluents from CSEZ and high-rises

The presence of white froth in Kalachal thodu near Thuthiyoor in Kakkanad has triggered concern over dumping of untreated effluents into the waterbody.

The foam appeared in the canal on Thursday and continued to remain in the waters on Saturday. Kalachal thodu is located close to the Cochin Special Economic Zone (CSEZ) and flows through wards 19, 20, 21, 22 and 24 of the Thrikkakara Municipality. Residents also experienced a pungent smell emanating from the waterbody.

“We feel that the foam appeared following dumping of effluents from the Cochin Special Economic Zone and high-rises near the waterbody. Despite repeated protests and pleas, the authorities have not taken steps to check pollution of the waterbody,” said M. K. Chandrababu, councillor, Ward 20.

Meanwhile, elected representatives expressed apprehension over the possible percolation of polluted water into the ground. Wells in five wards may get polluted by the discharge, they said.

The State Pollution Control Board had served notice on CSEZ citing discharge of untreated waste water from industrial units, resulting in pollution of Chitrapuzha and Kadambrayar. A report of the board had said that the common effluent treatment plant in the zone was not functioning properly. The CSEZ authorities had pointed out that steps were taken to resolve shortcomings.