THOOTHUKUDI
Collector Sandeep Nanduri on Monday said 99% of the chemicals and substances from Sterlite Copper plant in Thoothukudi had been removed.
He said evacuation of materials, except rock phosphate, gypsum and copper concentrate, which were found in large quantities, from the plant had been completed. The remaining work might take up to 30 more days, he added.
Dispelling rumours about reopening of the plant, Mr. Nanduri said the plant would remain closed as per the Government Order. “Even power hasn’t been given to the plant, and the evacuation process is happening only through diesel generator sets,” he said.
“Around 200 workers are currently providing technical support to the evacuation process in three shifts,” he said. “The high-power committee, in its report, had allowed a minimum workforce to be engaged for evacuation.”
“There are not many takers for copper concentrate, as the raw material is not used by many industries. Talks with (prospective) buyers are going on,” he said.
The evacuation process, which started on July 2, is being monitored by a special team, led by Sub-Collector M.S. Prashant and including officials from Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, Fire and Rescue Services, Inspectorate of Factories and other departments.