Why in the news? 

• Recently Gandepalli village in news because of devastating impact of an ethanol factory (Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd) since 2008
• Residents are struggling with foul air and water, poisoned crop fields, and depleting water tables

Negative impact on village 

Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd. is a company involved in the production of ethanol and animal feed supplements. It specializes in manufacturing extra-neutral alcohol (ENA), a type of ethanol.

• Under the red category: Ethanol production plants and distilleries, including Sentini BioProducts, fall under the ‘red category’ as per Central government norms, indicating high pollution levels (score of 60 or more)
• Wastewater Discharge: The factory is mandated to have a Zero Liquid Discharge system in place. However, residents report untreated wastewater discharge into the nearby irrigation canal.
•  Air Pollution: Residents complain of a choking stench and polluted air emanating from the factory, indicating potential air pollution issues.
•  Crop Damage: Extensive crop damage is reported by villagers, indicating potential contamination of agricultural lands by pollutants from the factory. Over more than 10 years, farmers in the area have experienced a decline in crop quality and yield, particularly in paddy cultivation.
•  Negative Impact on quality of Life: Pollution from the factory negatively impacts the quality of life for local residents, posing health risks and environmental hazards.

Regulatory Failures in this situation:

• Unable to address the problem: Despite multiple complaints from villagers and show-cause notices issued to the factory since 2013, regulatory authorities, including the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB), have been ineffective in addressing the pollution issues.
• Regulatory lapse revealed by Lokayukta: The Lokayukta inquiry revealed lapses by regulatory bodies, including the APPCB and the Joint Director of Agriculture of Krishna district, in investigating and addressing the environmental damage caused by the factory’s operations.
• Delay in action: The delay in taking appropriate action and the failure to enforce environmental regulations have allowed the factory to continue its polluting activities unabated.

Suggestive measures to address the situation:

•  Need Comprehensive Investigation: Conduct a thorough investigation into the environmental impact of Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd. on Gandepalli village. This investigation should include assessments of air and water quality, soil contamination, and the extent of crop damage caused by the factory’s operations.
• Enforcement of Environmental Standards: Ensure strict compliance with environmental standards and regulations by the factory.
• Community Engagement: Foster meaningful dialogue and engagement between the factory management, regulatory authorities, and the local community. Provide opportunities for residents to voice their concerns, share their experiences, and participate in decision-making processes related to environmental management and pollution control measures.
• Remediation and Compensation: Implement measures to remediate the environmental damage caused by the factory, including restoration of polluted water bodies, soil remediation, and compensation for affected farmers.

 Conclusion 

The devastating impact of Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd. on Gandepalli village, including pollution, crop damage, and regulatory failures, necessitates urgent comprehensive investigation, strict enforcement of environmental standards, community engagement, and remediation efforts to restore environmental health and livelihoods.

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