The Political Ecology of Risk: Problematising the Risk Distribution of Solid Waste Treatment Plants

Municipal solid waste treatment plants and the questions regarding their potential risk to the local community are often considered “socially constructed.” The underlying political dynamics that shape the distribution of risk within society are not given sufficient attention, even during hazardous incidents. Such hazards are often avoidable or foreseeable, particularly when it comes to underprivileged communities. In this analytical paper, we discuss the complex interplay between power relations, human rights, and risk in the context of the catastrophic fire incident at the Brahmapuram Waste Treatment Plant in Ernakulam District, Kerala, India, which occurred on 2 March 2023. The Brahmapuram fire incident triggered a cascade of socio-environmental consequences, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between environmental hazards, political decision-making, and the marginalized communities that bear the brunt of such events. Utilizing a case study approach and political ecology as the theoretical framework, the study explores the intricate web of actors, interests, and power relations that contributed to both the occurrence of the fire and the subsequent response regarding the risk distribution of solid waste treatment plants. The stakeholder analysis conducted as part of the study reveals the power dynamics shaping decision-making, involving government bodies, regulatory agencies, and affected communities. Primary data were gathered through interviews and surveys with key stakeholders and affected communities, complemented by archival analysis of official records and media reports. Furthermore, the article examines the differential impact of the fire on various social groups, particularly marginalized communities residing in proximity to the Brahmapuram Plant. It explores how their vulnerabilities and limited access to resources exacerbated the risks associated with the fire and their subsequent struggles for justice. By shedding light on these critical issues, this article provides a deeper understanding of the political ecology of risk in the context of waste management and environmental hazards.