Pawan warns pharmaceutical units about pollution

KAKINADA: Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan warned pharmaceutical companies like Aurobindo and Divi’s, which have set up their units in the Kakinada Special Economic Zone (KSEZ), that the government will not tolerate the companies polluting sea waters and climate. He inaugurated various developmental works at Zilla Parishad Boys High School at Gollaprolu in Pithapuram constituency in Kakinada district on Monday.

Some of the KSEZ farmers and fishermen from U. Kothapalli and Thondangi mandals met Pawan Kalyan at the public meeting and complained about pharmaceutical companies polluting sea waters. He directed district collector S. Shan Mohan to check the pollution data from AP Pollution Control Board (APPCB) and take necessary steps. He also warned that PCB officials should not give false assurances about pollution by pharmaceutical companies. He said the government will encourage the industry but at the same time will never accept pollution.

He reminded that the state and central governments earn more income from the fishing sector. He also made it clear that companies need not give CSR funds for the development of Pithapuram constituency, but will be strict in protecting fish wealth and environment. He also promised to increase land compensation to farmers who gave land to KSEZ and increase employment opportunities to local people.

Talking about the development of Pithapuram constituency, Pawan Kalyan said that an agency for development of Pithapuram district will be formed soon to develop the constituency. He said 223 CC roads are being developed in the constituency at a cost of $14.48 million, Pithapuram Hospital will be upgraded to a 100-bed hospital and bridges will be constructed at Suddagadda canal and Surampeta. He said 22 cents worth of land has been acquired for the cemetery of Schedule Caste people in Vannepudi. He said that the Primary School will be converted into High School and school buildings will be constructed in U. Kothapalli mandal.

Interacting with students at the high school, Pawan Kalyan said that students should pay attention to self-confidence and skill development, and girls should also pay attention to their safety. He said criminals who alter photographs and harass girls should not tolerate such harassment. He also promised to set up a coaching center for students. He encouraged the students to inculcate a scientific attitude. He participated in various programs in Kakinada Rural mandal and U. Kothapalli mandal in P. Venkatapuram.