PCB seeks explanation from MCH over waste handling

The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (PCB) has sought an explanation from the Ernakulam Medical College Hospital (MCH) regarding its response to the show-cause notice issued by the Board two weeks ago over the handling of waste on its campus. The Board has asked the hospital authorities to provide details on the quantity of the dumped waste that was segregated and disposed of. The Board has sought the reply within three days.

The Board had served a show-cause notice on the hospital a few weeks ago. An inspection was carried out by PCB officials on February 20, following complaints of improper waste management.

In its direction letter to the hospital, the Board noted that, according to the hospital’s reply, solid waste and food waste were segregated separately and disposed of in a scientific manner. The Board has directed the hospital to classify the quantity of the segregated waste and report the details.

The Board has also sought further clarification regarding the hospital’s statement that a person has been assigned to sort and transport the solid waste. The hospital has been directed to provide details on how the waste is disposed of by the person, where it is disposed of, and the authorisation details of the person for waste disposal.

The Board also noted that, as the aerobic composting unit is not currently functional, a report should be provided on how food waste is currently disposed of. The tender process for the restoration of Ultra Filtration should be completed, and a report should be submitted within one month.

As per the investigation, the violations observed by the PCB included a large number of plastic bags containing solid waste, including biodegradable waste, paper and plastic, dumped in the parking area. In its response, the hospital authorities stated that the waste had been temporarily stored on the campus following a cleaning drive carried out in connection with the inauguration of its Super Speciality Block and that solid waste, including plastic, paper and food waste, was segregated and disposed of in a scientific manner.