Kerala High Court has ordered the Kozhikode District Collector to seek expressions of interest (EOIs) for managing poultry waste at Ambayathode, amid ongoing protests against Fresh Cut Organics’ factory. This directive addresses resident complaints about excess waste causing stench and pollution since 2019. The next hearing is set for January 21, 2026.
Conflict Background
Protests against Fresh Cut Organic Products Pvt Ltd’s poultry waste processing plant in Ambayathode, near Thamarassery, escalated violently on October 21, 2025, with protesters setting fire to vehicles and clashing with police, injuring around 50 people including the Kozhikode Rural SP. Residents have long alleged the plant processes beyond its 25 tonnes/day capacity, leading to waste pile-ups, foul odors, and pollution of the Iruthullipuzha river, causing skin diseases and allergies. Tensions peaked after years of complaints, emptying the area temporarily due to arrests and fear.
Court Interventions
On December 22, 2025, Justice C Jayachandran directed the Collector to meet with the Pollution Control Board and local bodies to invite EOIs from more companies for waste handling and possible transport to other districts. Earlier, on October 30, 2025, the plant received conditional approval to resume at reduced 20 tonnes/day capacity, banning old waste and nighttime operations (6pm-midnight). The National Green Tribunal (NGT) took suo motu cognizance on December 2, 2025, issuing notices to pollution boards, the District Magistrate, and MoEFCC over air and water pollution claims, with a hearing set for January 29, 2026.
Resident and Company Perspectives
Locals, including PTA associations from nearby schools, claim the factory created a waste monopoly, exceeding capacity and ignoring norms, as argued by advocate Lal K Joseph. The company maintains compliance, supported by a district facilitation committee post-KSPCB inspections, but faces demands for full cleanup before restart. Government pleaders highlighted the need for additional players to manage the waste volume.
The Ambayathode poultry waste crisis underscores the urgent need for sustainable waste management solutions in Kozhikode’s rural heartland, balancing industrial growth with community well-being. As the Kerala High Court and NGT push for multi-stakeholder interventions, residents await cleaner air and resolved tensions ahead of the January 2026 hearings.
Read more at: https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2025/12/22/kerala-high-court-poultry-waste-ambayathode.html