Kochi: Environmental researchers from the Cochin University of Science and Technology’s School of Environmental Studies have discovered alarming levels of Chlorpyrifos, a hazardous insecticide, in Kuzhikandam Creek in Eloor. This revelation marks the first recorded presence of Chlorpyrifos in the area, which is already burdened with pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial effluents.
Chlorpyrifos, banned in India due to its harmful effects on children’s health, poses a significant environmental and public health challenge. In response, the research team is trialling a bioremediation approach to address the contamination. Their innovative solution involves two types of bioreactors designed for effluent treatment plants, aiming to remove Chlorpyrifos and heavy metals from wastewater before it enters stormwater drains. “We have isolated bacteria from creek soil samples and developed a bioreactor with two chambers,” explained the assistant professor leading the team. The first chamber employs UV light and a catalyst to eliminate various contaminants, while the second chamber, containing bacteria in coir pith, effectively removes heavy metals and Chlorpyrifos. “These bacteria have adapted to the local chemical environment, making them highly effective for decontamination,”.
Kuzhikandam Thodu, its adjacent swamps, and nearby paddy fields face severe contamination from organochlorine pesticides, volatile organic compounds, and heavy metals due to industrial effluent discharge. “Free KWA drinking water has been provided to the residents by the direction of the Supreme Court monitoring committee, and the environment ministry has identified Kuzhikandam Thodu and its adjacent swamp area as a top priority site requiring urgent remediation,” stated Purushan Eloor from the Periyar Malineekarana Virudha Samithi. He recently submitted a memorandum to the government, highlighting that despite a directive from the National Green Tribunal in May 2022 to implement remediation within a year, no significant steps have been taken.
Chlorpyrifos, one of the most commonly used organophosphorus pesticides, is linked to severe health issues and extensive environmental degradation. Preethy, another researcher, emphasised that the most effective strategy is to eliminate Chlorpyrifos at its contamination source. The team plans to offer this bioreactor technology to industries to enhance their effluent treatment plants (ETPs). The ongoing bioremediation trials signify a proactive approach to addressing the environmental crisis in Kuzhikandam Creek. By leveraging local bacterial strains and advanced bioreactor technology, the researchers aim to mitigate the pollution and restore the ecological balance of the affected areas. This innovative solution not only provides a pathway for cleaning up existing contamination but also offers a scalable model for other regions facing similar environmental challenges.
