NAMAKKAL: Residents intercepted a private tanker truck allegedly dumping septic waste on agricultural land on the banks of the Kalingarayan canal near Odaipalli in Namakkal district on Thursday.The residents have alleged that private tankers regularly transport septic waste from houses and industrial establishments in Erode and Namakkal districts and release it into farmland on the banks of the Cauvery river and the Kalingarayan canal.According to them, the illegal discharge of septic waste has resulted in odour and large-scale mosquito breeding, raising concerns over the spread of diseases. They said repeated complaints submitted to officials in Namakkal and Erode districts had failed to elicit effective action.“Despite repeated complaints, illegal dumping of septic waste on agricultural land continues unabated. Authorities must ensure strict monitoring and take deterrent action against violators to protect public health and environment,” said K Raja, resident.On Thursday, the residents noticed a private septic tanker from neighbouring Erode district releasing sewage into a farm. Enraged, they intercepted the vehicle and questioned the driver. On being alerted by the residents, officials from the Erode corporation’s fourth zone rushed to the spot and seized the truck. They assured the public that appropriate penalties would be imposed on the vehicle operator for violating prescribed norms.
