Endosulfan stored for 25 years in Kasaragod shifted to new barrels for neutralisation

After nearly a quarter-century of storage, 1,105 litres of endosulfan pesticide kept in the Kerala Plantation Corporation (PCK) godowns in Kasaragod district was transferred to new barrels as part of a neutralisation process mandated by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

A team led by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) Southern Regional Director J. Chandrababu supervised the operation. The team completed the repacking of the toxic chemical, stored in four barrels at the Periye estate, into eight high density polythene containers. The remaining stock from the Rajapuram estate was also similarly repacked.

The endosulfan stock will be transported out of the district for scientific disposal. Dr. Chandrababu said the sealed barrels would be moved once clearance was received. A detailed report would be submitted to the NGT in its upcoming session next month.

The pesticide, banned in 2000 for its health and environmental hazards, had remained unneutralised in the PCK godowns at Periye, Rajapuram and Cheemeni estates despite multiple attempts since 2012. Initial efforts by the Defence Research Development Organisation and the Kerala Agricultural University were stalled following protests from the Endosulfan Campaign Committee.

The latest intervention follows a complaint by Udupi Human Rights Protection Mission president Ravindranath Shanbhog, who raised concerns over the unscientific burial of endosulfan at Minichipadavu and its potential threat to nearby Karnataka villages. The NGT had directed the CPCB to assess and act.

Companies specialising in hazardous waste management will now bid for the contract to neutralise the pesticide. The contractor quoting the lowest price will be tasked with transporting and scientifically disposing of the substance.

The move is part of renewed efforts under Operation Blossom Spring initiated by the district administration in 2021 and revived after NGT intervention in early 2024.

Officials from the State Pollution Control Board and the Central Insecticide Board were also part of the neutralisation efforts, aimed at ensuring scientific handling of the pesticide after decades of inaction.