In Kirov Oblast, a discharge of polluted wastewater into a river was detected.

      In July, under the supervision of the Ministry of Ecology and in coordination with the Kirov Region Prosecutor’s Office, an unscheduled inspection was carried out at OAO “Vozhgalsky Butter and Cheese Plant.” The company had completed construction of new biological wastewater treatment facilities, but tests detected exceedances of permissible levels in the discharges. The entry of inadequately treated effluent into the Bystritsa River was recognized as a violation. Inspectors drew up an administrative protocol. The extent of the damage caused to the water body is currently being assessed. The Ministry of Ecology continues to monitor the situation. A follow-up inspection is planned for September to assess how effectively the treatment facilities will operate once they reach their design capacity.