MP Hibi Eden has asked Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to initiate a scientific study on suspected soil contamination in a residential area near Edappally.
In a letter to the chief minister, the MP said families living near Punnakkatt Lane are facing problems due to alleged soil contamination caused by unscientific treatment of residues left behind by Mangalam Dyes and Chemicals and its allied unit Southern Organic Chemicals, which operated in the area more than 40 years ago. The units produced Rhodamine B, a fluorescent dye used in various industries known to pose potential health risks. The Hindu reported on the issue recently after chemical residue surfaced during drainage work.
Mr Eden pointed to resident accounts of how well the area’s water was being polluted and how eggs and coconuts produced there had developed reddish stains when the companies were operational.
“The Rhodamine B left behind by the company is said to have seeped into the soil over the years. Mixing the chemical with drinking water has caused an environmental disaster,” Mr Eden said, calling for action to remove the substance from the soil.
Published – 06 Feb 2026 22:19 IST