Chennai: Federation of North Chennai Residents Welfare Associations (FNCRWA) has urged authorities to permanently shut the 50 tonne waste incinerator at Kodungaiyur and scrap plans for a proposed 2,100 tonne waste-to-energy plant, citing a survey that linked incinerator emissions to health issues in the area.On Feb 16 and 17 this year, Foundation for Friendly Environment and Medical Awareness surveyed 415 households across eight neighbourhoods within a 2km radius of the 50 tonne incinerator. According to the report, 79.8% of surveyed households reported one or more health issues, with 93.4% of those attributing their illnesses — respiratory ailments, eye irritation, skin problems and recurring discomfort — to smoke emitted from the incinerator. “After multiple complaints, the 50 tonne plant was temporarily shut down. We are worried about the possible impact of the 2,100 tonne plant if it is established. We urge the civic body to permanently close the plant and stop the works taken for the proposed one,” said FNCRWA president T K Shanmugam.FNCRWA, along with Alliance for Incinerator-Free Chennai, submitted the findings of the survey to Greater Chennai Corporation commissioner G S Sameeran recently. The commissioner assured that the concerns would be discussed with relevant authorities. “If the project is implemented, it will be established and operated strictly in accordance with prescribed environmental and safety guidelines,” said Sameeran.But FNCRWA said it will continue its opposition as its members are not convinced by the assurance. The association plans to meet chief minister C Joseph Vijay and submit a petition seeking the withdrawal of the proposed waste-to-energy plant.
