Cauvery River Water Turns Green in Erode District, Sparking Pollution Fears Among Residents

The Cauvery river water has turned green in several parts of Erode district in Tamil Nadu, causing worry among local residents and farmers who fear industrial pollution. The discolouration was reported on November 5, 2026, in areas including Ammapettai, Nerinjipettai, and Kuthiraikalmedu.

Impact On Public

People living along the river say they cannot use the water due to the colour change. Some individuals who bathed in the river experienced itching, and a strong stench is coming from the water. At Nerinjipettai, an agricultural well close to the river has also turned green. Locals suspect that chemical waste released by factories operating upstream of the Mettur Dam is causing the problem. Residents also noted that the river water turned green in Ammapettai a few years ago, and they allege that no proper action was taken despite past complaints.

Context

Rivers receiving industrial discharge often experience severe water quality issues that threaten local farming and public health. Environmental monitoring agencies like pollution control boards are tasked with inspecting affected water bodies and tracing the source of harmful effluents. Water pollution in major rivers remains a recurring challenge for communities dependent on natural water sources.