Kochi breathes easy after 12 days as Brahmapuram waste plant fire doused completely

Mangalore Today News Network

Kochi, Mar 14, 2023: After 12 days of continuous efforts, the raging fire at the Brahmapuram waste treatment plant in Kerala’s Kochi was completely extinguished. Ernakulam District Collector Umesh NSK said that there was no smoke emanating from the site by Monday evening.

 

The Pollution Control Board has warned Kochi residents to be careful even if smoke is no longer rising from the waste plant. Due to the days-long blaze, the city’s air quality has taken a beating. There is also the possibility of acid rain.

According to the National Air Quality Index, the prominent pollutant in Kochi city is Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which cause many respiratory problems. PM10 particulate matter, which is high in sulfate, nitrate, chloride, and carbon, has also increased in the atmosphere.

Central Pollution Control Board data shows that the amount of nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere is on the rise. There is also a high amount of toxins like dioxin in the air.

Due to the increased level of chemical pollutants in the air, the level of chemical substances may be very high during the first summer rain of the year.

In more worrying news, chemical pollution in the air has spread to Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Thrissur districts, which flank Ernakulam.

A health survey will begin Tuesday in areas affected by air pollution due to smoke from the Brahmapuram waste plant. A medical Specialty Response Centre set up at Ernakulam Kakkanad Family Health Center will start functioning today.

This will ensure adequate expert treatment for those suffering from any type of problem related to the inhalation of toxic smoke.

Opposition wants CBI probe into fire

Opposition leader VD Satheesan sought a CBI probe into the fire at the Brahmapuram waste plant. But Local Self-Governments Minister MB Rajesh rejected the demand citing that an investigation is already underway.

Courtesy: India Today