Pawan Kalyan Calls for Regular Inspections of Aqua Units Across AP

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan directed officials to strictly enforce environmental regulations to prevent waste discharged from aqua processing and pre-processing units from contaminating water resources. He called for regular inspections across the state to ensure that aqua units comply with prescribed environmental standards and do not release untreated waste into rivers, canals, ponds, estuarine areas or groundwater sources.

Pawan Kalyan warned that unchecked discharge from aqua units could have wider consequences for fisheries, agriculture and livestock, besides affecting communities whose livelihoods depend on water resources. He stressed the need to detect pollution at its source and strengthen monitoring mechanisms before violations cause lasting damage.

According to the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB), the state has 119 aqua processing units and 12 pre-processing units. Officials said inspections, sample collection and laboratory testing were being carried out to assess compliance. Samples have so far been collected from 82 units, with variations detected in parameters including pH, floating solids and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) at some locations.

The APPCB has issued show-cause notices to 10 units for failing to meet environmental standards. The units have been given two weeks to provide explanations and take corrective measures. Officials said further regulatory action would follow if violations continue.

Officials also highlighted the importance of monitoring BOD and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) in wastewater. High BOD can reduce dissolved oxygen in water and threaten aquatic ecosystems, while elevated TSS can deteriorate water quality and damage aquatic habitats. Abnormal pH levels can also adversely affect aquatic life.

Pawan Kalyan directed authorities to conduct frequent sampling and testing to identify problems at an early stage. While allowing non-compliant units an opportunity to rectify violations, he stressed that repeated breaches should invite appropriate action.

Meanwhile, Pawan Kalyan reviewed the movement of elephants in Padiputlabailu and surrounding areas of Chittoor district. He directed officials to deploy kumki elephants to guide the animals safely back into the forest and maintain close coordination among the police, revenue and electricity departments and Hanuman teams.

An elephant herd of 11, along with two other elephants, has reportedly been moving through Pundlavallapalli, Nadimpalli and Kondakindapalli areas for around 15 days, damaging crops. Officials were instructed to keep vulnerable villagers alert and ensure immediate compensation for farmers whose crops have been damaged.