Gujarat Pollution Control Board Takes Strict Action Against Industrial Pollution
The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) has implemented decisive measures to address deteriorating winter air quality by ordering the closure of 16 industrial units across Ahmedabad and Surat over the past four months. This aggressive enforcement action reflects a zero-tolerance approach to emissions violations under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, as authorities work to meet National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) standards.
Closure Notices and Financial Penalties
According to senior GPCB officials, the regulatory body issued nine closure notices in Ahmedabad and seven in Surat during this period, representing intensified scrutiny of industrial emissions during winter months when meteorological conditions typically worsen particulate pollution. In addition to the shutdown orders, GPCB has imposed environmental damage compensation (EDC) penalties totaling Rs 75 lakh on these non-compliant units.
This enforcement drive forms part of a broader compliance initiative aimed at ensuring industries meet ambient air quality standards and operate mandated pollution control systems effectively. With Ahmedabad scheduled to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, authorities have accelerated their efforts to bring the air quality index (AQI) under control through rigorous monitoring and enforcement.
Comprehensive Winter Action Plan Implementation
GPCB officials emphasized their commitment to upholding ambient air quality norms through a comprehensive Winter Action Plan that was prepared ahead of the season and is currently in force. This strategic plan focuses on identifying and controlling key sources of emissions, improving monitoring capabilities, and strengthening operational practices across industrial clusters throughout Gujarat.
The Winter Action Plan incorporates several core elements designed to systematically reduce pollution:
- Creation of an inventory documenting solid fuel-based utilities and other potential pollution sources
- Regular calibration of Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (CEMS) to ensure accurate emissions tracking
- Specialized training programmes for boiler operators to improve combustion efficiency
- Enhanced air quality monitoring with identification of pollution hotspots for targeted control measures
- Environmental clinics to sensitize industries on compliance requirements and best practices
Local Initiatives and Technical Guidance
In the Narol industrial area of Ahmedabad, local industrial associations have taken proactive measures by deploying an anti-smog gun to help control particulate matter levels, specifically targeting PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations. This community-driven initiative complements GPCB's regulatory efforts and demonstrates collaborative approaches to pollution control.
GPCB's winter measures also emphasize proper maintenance of air pollution control devices, including timely replacement of bags in bag filters and ensuring functional components such as solenoid valves, rotary valves and pressure-difference gauges. Industries have received specific technical guidance advising them to maintain optimum air-to-fuel ratios to ensure complete combustion and reduce emissions.
Additionally, a Gujarat Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation Ltd (GITCO) study examining Narol textile units' boilers has been shared with individual manufacturing facilities to guide corrective actions and improve operational efficiency. This technical support aims to help industries achieve compliance while maintaining productivity, creating a balanced approach to environmental protection and economic activity.
The coordinated efforts between regulatory authorities, industrial associations, and individual enterprises represent a multi-faceted strategy to address air quality challenges in Gujarat's major industrial centers, particularly as the state prepares for international events like the Commonwealth Games while working toward long-term environmental sustainability goals.
