Andhra pollution board begins closure action against two prawn units

The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board has begun proceedings to close two prawn-processing units in SPSR Nellore district after inspectors found untreated wastewater being released into drains and solid waste being burned. The action followed an inspection led by the board’s Chief Environmental Engineer, M. Rajasekhar, at several facilities on September 26.

The inspections were part of a State-wide check of 131 aqua processing and pre-processing units. The Water Base Limited facility at Ananthapuram village processes eight tonnes a day, while Abaad Overseas Private Limited at Kudithipalem village processes 20 tonnes a day, according to the board official. Rajasekhar said both units had effluent treatment plants, but the plants were not being operated.

Wastewater was therefore discharged without treatment. He said solid waste that should have been managed scientifically was instead burned. Officials also found that the units had not given sufficient attention to maintaining green cover or implementing other environmental protection measures.

The board has started the process of issuing closure orders under the applicable provisions. The inspection drive was ordered after Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan, who holds the Forest and Environment portfolio, directed the board on September 28 to enforce environmental rules strictly.

The board has collected samples from 82 units across the State. Officials told Kalyan’s office that some samples showed deviations in pH, floating solids and biochemical oxygen demand. Ten units have received show-cause notices and two weeks to make corrections.

The board said high biochemical oxygen demand reduces dissolved oxygen in water and can harm aquatic life, particularly fish. Chairman P. Krishnaiah warned that industries causing pollution could face legal action and said enforcement would continue without compromise.