Pollution board imposes fine of Rs 50L on industrial units in Karnal

In an attempt to combat rising pollution levels under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) IV, the regional office of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) in Karnal has sealed five ready-mixed concrete (RMC) and hot mixed plants and three diesel generator (DG) sets for non-compliance. The board has also imposed penalties amounting to Rs 50 lakh on these plants.

The sealed units include RMC Plants located in Nissing, Munak and Kohand, and a hot-mix plant in Sector-4. Each of these units has been fined Rs 10 lakh for continuing operations in violation of GRAP-IV guidelines, which mandates strict measures to curb pollution during severe air quality conditions.

Additionally, three diesel generator sets were sealed as their owners failed to retrofit them with necessary pollution control devices or convert them to cleaner energy alternatives.

To address the smog-like conditions and reduce particulate matter, the HSPCB has deployed seven anti-smog guns and 16 tractors equipped for water spraying on roads to settle dust. One mechanical sweeping machine is also being used to clean roads and reduce dust emissions, said SK Arora, Regional Officer, HSPCB.

He emphasised the importance of public cooperation in combating pollution and appealed to residents and industrial units to comply with pollution control measures and adopt sustainable practices to improve air quality.

“We urge all stakeholders to adhere to the GRAP guidelines and ensure proper functioning of pollution control systems. The HSPCB is committed to taking stringent action against violators to protect public health and the environment,” said Arora.

He said their team members are checking the violations and the violators will face sealing as well as fine.