Sterlite copper plant of Thoothukudi, which had previously been close thrice and reopened, has been closed for the 4 time now. Due to this reason, people of Thoothukudi are yet to believe the government action of sealing the factory.
Sterlite factory, in 1996 had emitted sulphur dioxide and other toxic gases as well, leading to people being impacted physically, with them facing respiratory diseases and eye infections. Following such huge effects on health, people had filed cases against the industry in high court. The High court had directed the National Environmental engineering research institute to analyze the situation and submit a report. After the report going negative, the factory was closed.
However it was reopened sooner after
testing for 2 months. In 2010, again a court order was directed to close the
plant or pay a penalty of 100 crores and operate. Even in 2013, after a report
from pollution control board, the plant was closed and reopened. With this
situation, people are now not able to believe the government order to close the
factory 4th time.
