POLLUTING POWER PLANTS

The indifference of the Kothgudem thermal power station ( KTPS) to the notices of the state Pollution Control Board calls for urgent and stringent action against the public- sector undertaking (“Stream of ash”, April 16-30, 2014). The power plant, located in Khammam district of Andhra Pradesh, has been polluting water streams with waste and fly ash. This is severely affecting not only the environment but also the health of cattle and people, who depend on the streams for drinking water. Considering the adverse effect the power plant has had, the judiciary must intervene and order the closure of the plant, or else KTPS will continue to make excuses and shirk responsibility. Power generation is important, but not at the cost of life. D B N MURTHY Bengaluru