Residents in Jadcherla Raise Concerns Over Pollution from Pharma Companies
Residents of Jadcherla constituency, particularly from villages like Polepally, Peddapally, Mudi Reddypally, and nearby tribal hamlets, are growing increasingly worried about air, water, and land pollution caused by pharmaceutical companies in the area. These companies operate in and around the Jadcherla Pharma Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which hosts major firms such as Aurobindo Pharma, Shilpa Medicare, Hetero Biopharma, Viatris, Evertogen Life Sciences, Cohance Lifesciences, Virchow Laboratories, and Optimus Generics. While these companies contribute significantly to the pharmaceutical industry, locals claim their operations are damaging the environment and harming public health.
A specific concern has been raised against Virchow Laboratories in Peddapally. The company has been accused of releasing black smoke containing carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide into the air. This has caused a strong chemical smell in the area, resulting in respiratory issues for residents.
“Every morning and evening, we deal with a pungent chemical smell coming from Virchow Laboratories near our village. Despite repeated complaints, no action is taken. Pollution control officials should visit monthly to check whether these companies are following environmental laws. They need to talk to us to understand the problems we face,” said Tulsiram, a villager from the area.
Water pollution is another major issue. Companies like Hetero, Aurobindo, Evertogen, and Shilpa Medicare are reportedly discharging untreated chemical waste into local water sources. These firms are required to send hazardous waste to Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) in Hyderabad for proper processing. However, locals allege that only a small portion of the waste is treated, while the rest is released into open areas and water channels (nalas), contaminating groundwater and soil.
Farmers in the region have reported reduced crop yields due to polluted soil and water. Additionally, fish deaths in local water bodies, especially in Mudi Reddypally, highlight the devastating effects of untreated chemical effluents. This environmental degradation has made it harder for residents to sustain their livelihoods.
The issue has also caught the attention of local leaders. Recently, Jadcherla MLA Janampally Anirudh Reddy raised the matter of pollution caused by Aurobindo Pharma in the Telangana Assembly. He pointed out that the company’s untreated discharges are polluting a tank in Mudi Reddypally, which is endangering public health and affecting the lives of villagers. Reddy urged the government to take strict action against such companies and ensure compliance with pollution control norms.
Residents are now demanding immediate government intervention. They are calling for stricter oversight to ensure pharmaceutical companies operate responsibly, safeguarding the environment and the health of the local community.
