Pollution board shuts 10 metal, plastic units for violating norms

Acting on the directives of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has issued closure orders to 10 metal and plastic scrap units operating illegally in Ferozepur Banger, Kharkhoda. Of these, seven units have already been sealed, while the remaining three will be sealed shortly, officials said.

A joint inspection by teams of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and HSPCB found that all 10 units were functioning without mandatory environmental clearances, including Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO). The units were also found using illegal fuel in their scrap-melting furnaces and operating without any air pollution control devices, in violation of the prescribed norms.

The action comes at a time when the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the NCR region, including Delhi and adjoining districts, continues to deteriorate. Taking serious cognisance of the pollution levels, CAQM has enforced Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the NCR from November 11.

The CPCB-HSPCB teams had conducted a surprise inspection in Ferozepur Banger on October 29. As per records, the units found in illegal operation were Kartar Industries, SK Industries, Mosterline Appliances (India), Dahiya Metals, Aqua Plastics, Happy Life Appliances, Midhil Strips and three unnamed units located in the fields.

Ajay Malik, Regional Officer (RO), HSPCB, Sonepat, said all the units were operating in violation of environmental laws. “All 10 units — metal and plastic units — were found operating illegally as they didn’t obtain a valid CTE and CTO from the department. Seven of these units have been sealed, while three units will be sealed soon,” he said.

He added that the board will not tolerate such violations: “No such illegal practice will be allowed in the district at any circumstances.”

The action was initiated following complaints from local residents and in compliance with CAQM’s directions. With GRAP Stage III in force, the RO reiterated that “no construction project, Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) plant, or mining activities are allowed except for government linear projects.”

Additionally, nine construction project sites were inspected recently. Show-cause notices for closure were issued after the teams found violations of CAQM guidelines at all nine sites, the RO said.