Forest department installs cameras to stop illegal dumping near Erumely

Cameras and intensified patrols readied as forest roads turn dumping grounds

The Forest department is preparing to install at least 10 surveillance cameras along the Karimpinthodu–Mukkada road and strengthen patrols in coordination with grama panchayats to combat illegal waste dumping that has turned forest fringes near Erumely into ecological danger zones.

The move comes as tonnes of garbage, including slaughterhouse waste, continue to be dumped under darkness along the Erumely–Vechoochira, Mukkada–Karimpinthodu and Placheri–Mukkada routes, threatening wildlife and disrupting the natural balance of these green zones. The department has already installed cameras along the forest stretches of the Erumely–Vechoochira road in association with an NGO and warned that stringent legal action will be taken against offenders.

Waste piles despite cleanup drives

Mounds of plastic, food waste and other debris have become a common sight along these stretches, with the problem worsening in recent years amid the lack of an effective mechanism to clear the waste. The dumping continues unabated, particularly at night, despite repeated warnings from the Forest department and cleaning drives organised by panchayat authorities with local residents and NGOs.

A few months ago, the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement unit under the Thiruvalla archdiocese removed around 10 tonnes of plastic and other waste dumped along a four-kilometre stretch of roadside and forest on the Erumely–Mukkada route. The stretch between Karimpinthodu and Mukkada is among the worst affected, with large quantities of waste dumped into a small stream running through the forest. Vehicles reportedly stop near the stream and throw bags of waste into it.

Wildlife at risk as garbage attracts predators

Forest officials warned that the accumulation of waste could increase the risk of wild animals being drawn closer to human settlements in search of food. "The accumulation of waste is not just an eyesore but also attracts animals that feed on it, such as wild pigs. Over time, this could draw carnivorous predators to the area," a senior Forest department official pointed out.

Adding to the concern is the frequent burning of the dumped garbage by unidentified persons. Forest officials said such fires often smoulder for days, releasing toxic fumes and posing risks to both wildlife and residents of nearby settlements.

Local residents alleged that restaurants, shops, slaughterhouses and waste collection units operating in Erumely, Ranni and Vechoochira were behind the dumping. "Those dumping waste in huge volumes appear to be operating as organised syndicates. Proper waste management, regular monitoring and coordinated action by local authorities and the Forest department are essential to protect both people and wildlife in the region," said a local resident.

Source: The Hindu