A fish factory in Padu village, Kaup taluk, accused of causing severe environmental pollution, was sealed, offering long-awaited relief to residents. The operation was led by Kaup Tahsildar Pratibha under orders from Udupi Deputy Commissioner Vidya Kumari.

For years, the factory discharged untreated waste and emitted a foul odor, prompting repeated complaints from residents. Despite inspections by the Pollution Control Board (PCB), no corrective actions were taken. A recent PCB report confirmed the factory’s release of harmful pollutants into the environment, leading to the closure order.

The factory was sealed under Section 33(A) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and Rule 34 of the Karnataka Water Pollution Control Rules, 1976. Tahsildar Pratibha emphasized the importance of balancing industrial growth with environmental protection. “Industries must adopt proper waste management practices. Violators will face similar actions,” she warned.

The move has been lauded by the residents, who endured years of health and environmental issues due to the factory’s operations. Officials from various departments, including Revenue Inspector Ijjar Sabir, police, and Mescom, supported the operation.

This decisive action sets a precedent for enforcing environmental compliance and prioritizing community well-being over industrial negligence.

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