Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jul 18: A local resident from Falnir raised concern over the illegal dumping of bio-medical waste on the footpath opposite Highland Hospital, next to a pet shop on the Kankanady–Falnir Road.

The discarded materials included syringes, blood sample containers with barcodes and patient names, medical bills, and confidential patient records. Bottles containing clotted blood samples were also found at the spot.

A resident named Azeez filed a complaint at the Kadri police station, stating that the waste posed a serious health hazard to pedestrians. He noted that stray dogs had scattered the waste, increasing the risk.

“This is dangerous. Bio-medical waste containing blood samples and syringes can spread infections. Civic workers may unknowingly handle this waste with bare hands, putting their health at risk. If something happens, who will be held accountable?” Azeez questioned.

Responding to the complaint, district health officer Dr Thimmayya promptly dispatched health officials P R Pradeep Kumar and Gururaj Umachegi to investigate the matter.

The officials confirmed a violation of bio-medical waste disposal norms and collected samples, which included syringes, blood sample containers, patient documents, and medical bills.

Documents found at the site were traced to Shifa Clinical Lab and Allergy Testing Centre, Tenet Diagnostics, and MS Clinical Lab.

The waste was safely removed using a certified bio-medical waste carrier.

Officials from the pollution control board also inspected the site later in the day.

Dr Thimmayya said, “Based on the complaint regarding illegal dumping of bio-medical waste on the Falnir footpath, our health officials have taken samples and traced the material to three labs—Shifa Clinical Lab, Tenet Diagnostics, and MS Clinical Lab. Necessary legal action will be taken.”

He urged all medical establishments to strictly follow the KPME Act and the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules under the purview of the pollution control board.

“Every facility must renew its license annually. There are provisions for cancellation of licenses for non-compliance. Bio-medical waste is not to be taken lightly—dumping it in public spaces poses a serious threat to public health,” he added.