Byndoor, Udupi District: Concerned residents and daily commuters along the Byndoor–Shirur stretch of National Highway 66 have urged authorities to take immediate action against illegal dumping of waste fish water near Ottinenne, close to Raghavendra Mutt Temple in Byndoor Taluk.

According to locals, several fish transport lorries have been discharging contaminated fish water along the roadside, causing severe foul odour and environmental degradation in the area. Despite repeated requests from the public, the practice reportedly continues unabated.

Foul Smell and Health Risks Reported

Residents say that the stagnant waste water has created unbearable conditions for those living and commuting nearby. The strong odour lingers for long distances, making it difficult for travellers and pedestrians to pass through the area.

In addition to air pollution, locals report that the wastewater flows into nearby fields and grazing lands, contaminating the soil and water sources. Farmers have alleged that cattle and other animals have fallen ill, and some have even died after consuming the polluted water.

A local resident shared,

“The stench is unbearable. Even after alerting the lorry drivers, nothing has changed. This waste water mixes with the fields and poses a threat to our livestock and crops.”

Public Appeals for Government Intervention

The concerned public has requested that district authorities, the Pollution Control Board, and the Tahsildar’s office intervene immediately to halt this illegal dumping. They are calling for:

  • Strict enforcement against fish lorries discharging waste along highways.
  • Periodic inspection by environmental and local authorities.
  • Proper waste management systems for fish processing and transportation units.

They have also appealed for installation of warning boards and CCTV surveillance in pollution-prone zones along the NH-66 corridor.

Environmental and Animal Health Concerns

Environmental activists warn that continuous dumping of untreated fish effluents can lead to groundwater contamination and spread of pathogens, posing long-term risks to both public health and local biodiversity.

If unchecked, this could escalate into a larger environmental hazard affecting the coastal ecosystem, as the polluted runoff could enter nearby water bodies during rainfall.

Authorities Yet to Respond

As of now, no official statement has been released by the Byndoor Town Panchayat or District Administration. Locals, however, hope that public exposure through the media will prompt authorities to act swiftly to restore cleanliness and prevent further contamination along this busy coastal highway.

The complainants have also shared photographs of the affected area, showing visible pollution and stagnant wastewater along the roadside.