Srikakulam: The issue of changing the processing system from the existing roasting to boiling system has led to the closure of 100- odd cahsewnut manufacturing units in Palasa, the hub of cashewnuts industry in the district. Refusing to implement the orders of Pollutuion Control Board to change to boiling system, the Cashewnut Manufacturers Association took the decision on Monday to indefinitely close all the units in Palasa and surrounding areas. The issue of changing to the boiling system of processing has been hanging fire for a long time.

It may be recalled that a gentlemen's agreement was reached more than a year ago to change to boiling system of processing and the deadline was December 10. Defying the PCB order, manufacturers went ahead with roasting process for a couple of days after the deadline, but at a meeting on Monday, they decided to close their units indefinitely.

The manufacturers sought time for shifting to the new system. Meanwhile they would try an alternative system to control billowing smoke which is the main pollutant. If found viable, the same would be introduced in all units. A delegation of manufacturers left for Hyderabad on Tuesday to represent their case to higher-ups.In the meantime, the workers employed in all units, numbering more than 10,000, decided to go on an indefinite strike.

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