The National Green Tribunal (NGT), Principal Bench, has taken suo motu cognizance of a report published in The Hindu titled “A fire that fails to die down” (07.11.2025), highlighting severe environmental violations linked to a waste treatment facility operated by M/s Fresh Cut Organic Products Pvt. Ltd. in Ambayathode, Kattippara Panchayat, Kozhikode, Kerala.
The report alleges that the 25-tonnes/day poultry waste processing unit has been causing persistent air and water pollution, including foul odour and contamination of the main river supplying drinking water. Residents have also reported rising cases of skin diseases and allergies. Despite the plant claiming compliance with environmental norms and securing district-level clearance, pollution is said to persist even while operations are halted due to public protest.
Finding the allegations indicative of potential violations of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Water Act, 1974, and Air Act, 1981, the Tribunal invoked its suo motu powers as recognised by the Supreme Court in Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai v. Ankita Sinha, 2021 SCC OnLine SC 897.
The NGT has impleaded the Kerala State Pollution Control Board, District Magistrate, Kozhikode, Central Pollution Control Board, and the Regional Office of MoEF&CC, Bengaluru as respondents, directing them to file their responses before the Southern Zonal Bench at least one week prior to the next date.
As the issue falls within its territorial jurisdiction, the Principal Bench has transferred the matter to the NGT Southern Zonal Bench, Chennai, where it is next listed for 29 January 2026.
