The Kerala High Court has intervened decisively in response to concerns over widespread waste dumping along railway lines and near stations in Kochi, highlighting a pressing environmental and public health issue. Justices Bechu Kurian Thomas and P Gopinath directed railway officials to provide a detailed report on measures taken to clear accumulated waste from these areas, stressing that despite being under railway jurisdiction, the state government must actively address and resolve the issue.
The court’s directives were prompted by a suo moto case initiated following a recent fire incident at the Brahmapuram waste plant. Of particular concern was the dumping of waste near Lourdes Hospital and other sensitive locations. The bench also sought clarification on actions taken against P S Sudhakaran, a local elected representative from Manjalloor in Muvattupuzha, who was observed dumping waste in a viral social media video. Local Self-Government Minister M B Rajesh publicly criticized Sudhakaran’s actions, emphasizing the need for responsible conduct among public officials. Avoly Panchayat has already imposed a Rs 1000 fine on Sudhakaran in response to the incident. The court’s proactive stance underscores the importance of accountability and effective waste management practices in urban areas. As the legal proceedings unfold, stakeholders are expected to collaborate closely to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safeguard community well-being in Kochi.
