News Tamil Nadu

Biomedical Waste & Confidential Patient Records From Kerala Illegally Dumped In Tamil Nadu Villages

December 17, 2024
The Commune

Large volumes of biomedical, food, and plastic waste, reportedly from Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) and Credence Private Hospital, have been found dumped across multiple Kodaganallur and Palavoor villages. The waste includes hazardous biomedical materials, such as used syringes and PPE kits, discarded on patta lands and waterbodies, causing significant health and environmental concerns.

As reported by TNIE, the dumping, which has been ongoing for several months, allegedly occurs during the night, making it difficult to apprehend those responsible. Trucks believed to be transporting loads for a nearby paper mill are suspected of bringing in the waste. Despite complaints by affected landowners, authorities have taken little action, and the issue remains unresolved.

Medical records containing sensitive personal information of cancer patients treated at the RCC were also found among the waste. Documents included patient names, addresses, treatment details, diagnoses, and dietary plans. Several of these records appeared to be recent, with dates from November 2024. The discovery of such documents not only highlights improper waste disposal practices but also raises concerns about a serious data breach.

The illegal dumping has had a direct impact on the local environment and livelihoods. Contaminated water sources near the dumping sites have led to health issues among livestock, including cattle and goats. Local farmers and residents are increasingly concerned about the long-term effects of biomedical waste exposure on their health and the surrounding ecosystem.

The issue has been brought to the attention of various authorities, including the Suthamalli police and the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Special Cell. Complaints were filed over a month ago, but no case has been registered to date. Residents have alleged negligence on the part of both the police and revenue officials, as neither group has visited the affected sites despite repeated requests.

CCTV cameras near strategic locations, such as a Tasmac outlet, a paper mill, and a quarry, could potentially identify the trucks involved, but no effort has been made to trace the vehicles. Waste has reportedly been dumped across five locations spanning 40 acres of land.

The District Collector has directed local officials and the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to investigate the matter and take legal action. The Tirunelveli Superintendent of Police has stated that an FIR is expected to be registered soon to address the complaints.

The incident has raised several pressing questions about waste management practices and accountability. Concerns include the effectiveness of border check posts, the role of authorities in preventing such illegal activities, and the absence of coordination between Tamil Nadu and Kerala to address the issue. The lack of response from opposition parties has also drawn criticism.

Local residents and activists are demanding that the illegally dumped waste be sent back to Kerala and that stringent measures be implemented to prevent further transportation of hazardous materials into Tamil Nadu. The discovery of both hazardous waste and confidential medical records has highlighted severe lapses in governance, data security, and public health safeguards.

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