SALEM: Citing potential health risks to the public and the environment, Dharmapuri MLA Sowmya Anbumani on Saturday opposed the proposed waste-to-energy plant at Vellakkalpatti in Jagir Ammapalayam of Salem. She questioned the rationale behind bringing waste from Salem and neighbouring districts to a single location for incineration, warning that the project could turn Salem into a dumping ground.
After inspecting the land identified for the project, Sowmiya told reporters that around 92.49 acres had been earmarked for the facility, which was approved during the previous government and is being pursued by the present administration. She alleged that changing its name from a waste incineration plant to a waste-to-energy facility would not alter its potential environmental impact.
"Solid waste management cannot mean collecting waste from several local bodies and dumping it in one place. The government must explain how this would amount to proper waste management," she said.
Sowmiya also raised concerns over the possible release of hazardous substances during waste burning, including dioxins and mercury, and questioned whether the environmental consequences had been adequately considered. She also expressed concern over the quantity of water required for the process, the possible depletion of groundwater and the disposal of ash generated after incineration.
"Waste from Salem and neighbouring districts such as Dharmapuri, Namakkal, Erode and Karur is proposed to be brought here. Salem should not be turned into a dumping ground for the region," she said.
She argued that local bodies should strengthen waste segregation and processing, while large waste-generating establishments, including commercial complexes and theatres, should take greater responsibility for waste management. She also urged the authorities to reconsider the project and explore alternatives that would minimise harm.