Measures against pollution are still not in place even after 11 studies reported on the levels of pollution caused by industries in the Eloor-Edayar belt and the intervention of the High Court and the Supreme Court. Why is it so? Waste disposal is the biggest question that poses a challenge to our democratic system, said Congress leader V M Sudheeran.
He was giving the inaugural speech of the ‘Periyar Raksha Sangamam’ organised by the Periyar Malineekarana Virudha Samiti and green activists at Pathalam, Eloor, on Wednesday.
The Pollution Control Board, which is a powerful body, is playing into the hands of vested interests. It is a surprise that green awards are presented to the very industries that cause the most pollution and the credibility of the body is called into question. Many programmes have been launched under ‘Clean Kerala, Green Kerala’ project but they are still a distant dream. With waste piling up and agricultural, industrial, hospitale, slaughterhouse and faecal waste being discharged into rivers, our rich water resources are being polluted. Life is turning unbearable as water is not safe to drink or vegetables free of poisonous pesticides like endosulfan. But the authorities are not doing anything about it.
Irrespective of the party in power, the authorities are allowing themselves to be juggled by vested interests. What will they think of the powers that be? he asked. The government and the public have the responsibility to ensure that our land remains pollution-free. Rules should be adhered to and the government should monitor and control polluting agents.
He also spoke against the allegations made by industries and trade unions that an activist Purushan Eloor and Kadungallor panchayat member Joshy have SIMI links and are being funded by foreign bodies.
He pointed out that trade unions were once in the forefront of social struggles and they should not fall into the trap of vested interests. Those who create such false propaganda are the real anti-nationals. Industries should function but they should adhere to the rules. Industries can easily reduce or stop pollution which means a slight reduction in their gains. To remain open is their responsibility.
Prof M K Prasad who presided over the function said that Periyar protection committees should be formed in all 48 panchayats. Dr Geevarghese Mar Koorilos, M K Prasad, C R Neelakantan, Prof Seetharaman, Adv D B Mini, Geo Jose, among others, spoke at the technical session. Purushan Eloor welcomed the gathering.
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