Rourkela: The regional wing of the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) initiated action against industries of Kalunga Industrial Estate on the city’s outskirts due to their alleged flouting of pollution guidelines, a report said.
Notices were served on many industries including Agrasen Sponge, TR Chemicals, Mahaveer Ferro and Ganesh Metalics while SPCB’s head office at Bhubaneswar was informed of the illegal operation of these industries, regional officer Mukesh Mahalinga Tuesday said.
Earlier, the state government had expressed concern over growing level of pollution in the city and asked the board to look into the matter.
Toxic smoke released by these industries has not only increased the air pollution level, it has also proved hazardous for people in general, it was alleged.
“A large number of people on the outskirts of the city have suffered from skin diseases and respiratory disorders due to toxic elements emitted by these industries,” locals said.
Meanwhile, SPCB officials started raiding industries to check whether they have installed electrostatic precipitator (ESP) and use it on a regular basis to reduce pollution in their peripheries.
Raids were conducted on two major violators of pollution norms – Jaybalaji Jyoti Steel Limited at Tainsar of Lathikata block and a crusher unit of L&T on Sundargarh Road – Saturday and Sunday respectively. The authorities of Jaybalaji were found releasing noxious smoke directly into air without passing it through the ESP. During an inspection, officials found thick layer of toxic dust on roads, working zones and grazing lands.
People living in peripheral regions like Baglata, Singer, Jhandi, Khadiatola, Pataratola, Ledhatole, Tainsar and Brahmantola are finding it difficult to negotiate dust menace, it was found.
Similarly, commuters on the state highway find it difficult to breathe while passing along the crusher unit set up by L&T company, the officials said.
Acting on a report submitted by the raiding team, regional officer Mahalinga has served notices on these units and recommended action against them, it was learnt. PNN
