A health investigation has been launched by Indian authorities into allegations that wastewater discharged from Tata Electronics’ iPhone components factory in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, has affected nearby farmlands and water sources, according to officials and documents reviewed by Reuters. The development marks a new escalation in an ongoing environmental dispute involving the Apple supplier.
The inquiry follows complaints from farmers who reported skin-related health issues and concerns over contaminated groundwater near the plant, which produces iPhone back covers and other components. The facility, which began operations in 2021, was earlier issued a warning by the state pollution control board on May 25 for alleged groundwater contamination.
According to a letter written by a government medical officer in late May, wastewater from the plant was reported to have caused a strong foul smell and rendered nearby water sources unsuitable for consumption by animals. Health officials have since begun collecting and testing water samples from affected areas.
Preliminary laboratory results reportedly detected E. coli bacteria in samples taken from nearby farms, indicating possible sewage contamination. Officials said the findings are being further examined, while farmers have continued to report health concerns, although no clinical cases have yet been confirmed.
Tata Electronics has stated that pollution board scrutiny was withdrawn after internal analysis of water samples showed no contamination. However, state authorities and Apple have not issued formal comments on the matter.
The investigation highlights growing environmental scrutiny around India’s expanding electronics manufacturing sector, which is central to the country’s ambition to become a global hub for smartphone production.
