THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Neyyar River is increasingly becoming a polluted waste channel in the capital city due to the unchecked dumping of slaughterhouse and septage waste. Locals claim that, despite the growing trend of disposing of waste into the river under the cover of darkness, authorities have yet to intervene effectively.

Just like Parvathy Puthanar and Aamayizhanjan Thodu, Neyyar is also at risk of becoming a waste-clogged, foul-smelling water body. Currently, due to the river's strong flow, the dumped waste gets washed away. However, if dumping continues, the waste will accumulate within months, leading to severe pollution.

Waste falling from vehicles has also piled up on roads leading to the bridge, causing a strong stench. Reports indicate that certain agencies have been granted permission to dump waste with the consent of a nearby private landowner. As a result, both the bridge and private land are being used for waste disposal. Locals are demanding urgent action against this practice.

No proper waste disposal sites available
Unauthorized agencies that collected waste from the district were caught dumping it in Tamil Nadu. Following this, they shifted their operations to Arakkunnu Bridge, which has now become a major waste disposal point. Even septage waste is being drained into the river.

Dumping location
The waste is dumped from the top of Arakkunnu Bridge, located on the Neyyattinkara–Marayamuttom Road. One side of the bridge belongs to Kacheri Ward under Neyyattinkara Municipality, while the other falls under Irumba Ward.

Cameras are non-functional
There are no barriers on either side of the bridge to prevent dumping, making it easy for trucks to unload waste. The two CCTV cameras installed in the area are non-functional, turning them into mere showpieces, further encouraging rampant waste disposal.

Authorities finally take action after complaints
With the rise in complaints regarding waste dumping at Arakkunnu Bridge, the Principal Directorate of the Local Self-Government Department has directed municipal officials to intervene. The waste management programs initiated by the government were not properly implemented by Neyyattinkara Municipality. As a result, a meeting chaired by the minister last year instructed officials to rectify these lapses.