Extent of ecological damage unclear, animals near polymer plant perish

Visakhapatnam: The styrene leak from the LG Polymers unit has also led to the death of a large numbers of

animals

in the plant’s vicinity. According to a visible count, nearly 22 cattle, six dogs and a pet cat were found dead. Leaves on several trees withered or got burnt.

Sources in the

animal husbandry

department said that most of the animals killed are domestic animals. They, however, said the damage done to birds and smaller species is yet to be ascertained.

B Rama Krishna, joint director of animal husbandry, said, “We are still on the field and in the process of identifying damage to the livestock. A majority of the animals that have died are either milch animals (cows, buffaloes) or pets.” He said they were assisted by animal rights’ groups.

Sources said the areas close to Meghadrigedda reservoir is also being scouted to assess the damage. So far, five wild birds have been rescued.

With regard to the damage to trees and plants, K Sailaja, assistant director, horticulture department, said, “Most of the trees in the area are old mango trees. They wear a weathered look.”


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