The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) on 13 June, 2024 has imposed a fine of ₹2.6 lakh/US$ 3000 on a tannery near Vaniyambadi, Tamil Nadu for illegally discharging effluents into the Palar river, causing significant environmental harm.
The tannery was shut down months ago after a TNPCB inspection led by district environment officer V. Gopalakrishnan. The inspection revealed that the tannery was operating without authorization under the Hazardous Waste Management Rules and was violating both the Water Act and the Air Act.
“The fine has been imposed for causing damage to the environment including the river. Regular checks are being done at leather units in the region”
Mr. Gopalakrishnan, DEO
The tannery was part of VANITEC Limited, which manages wastewater from 134 tanneries in the Vaniyambadi-Ambur region through a Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) in Valayampet, Vaniyambadi. Despite this, the tannery’s own treatment plant was found defunct, with effluents being illegally discharged into the Palar river through underground pipelines.
Following these findings, the TNPCB ordered the immediate closure of the tannery, and power supply to the facility was cut off by TANGEDCO. TNPCB has warned that stringent actions will be taken against any tannery violating pollution control norms, emphasizing that over 300 tanneries operate in the Vaniyambadi-Ambur leather belt.
In conclusion, TNPCB’s decisive action and significant fine highlight the importance of environmental compliance and the severe consequences of violating pollution control regulations. This serves as a critical reminder to industries to prioritize environmental stewardship and maintain operational treatment plants to protect our natural resources.
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