Goa Establishes Monitoring Cell for Highly Polluting Industries
In a significant move to bolster environmental oversight, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) has constituted a dedicated monitoring cell specifically for 11 industrial units that fall under the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) ‘highly polluting 17 category industries’. This action comes in response to revised guidelines from the CPCB, which now require more frequent inspections of such facilities to ensure stricter compliance with pollution norms.
Revised Inspection Norms and Immediate Implementation
As per the new regulations, these highly polluting units must undergo inspections at least once every three months. The GSPCB has already initiated this process, marking a proactive step towards enhanced environmental surveillance. The 11 units are strategically located across various regions in Goa, including Bethora, Usgao, Pissurlem, Sanguem, Cuncolim, Zuarinagar, Amona, and Corlim, highlighting the widespread nature of industrial activities in the state.
Background and Regulatory Directives
The impetus for these changes stems from directives issued by the CPCB in 2019, which emphasized the need for regular inspections under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. The Central Board clarified that while state boards like the GSPCB are responsible for planning and implementing pollution control programs, the CPCB’s role is to coordinate and guide these efforts. This framework led to the categorization of industries based on their pollution potential.
National Green Tribunal’s Intervention
The revision in inspection frequency was further catalyzed by a ruling from the National Green Tribunal (NGT). In a case involving Haryana, the NGT found that infrequent inspections and auto-renewal of consents had resulted in unchecked violations of environmental norms, particularly for highly polluting industries. Deeming such practices contrary to the principles of precautionary and sustainable development, the NGT called for a stronger inspection and regulatory regime. Consequently, it directed a reduction in the interval between inspections and increased vigilance across all industry categories.
Implications for Goa’s Environmental Governance
In light of the NGT’s directives and the CPCB’s updated guidelines, the central board revised the required frequency of inspections. The establishment of the monitoring cell by the GSPCB represents a critical step in aligning with these national standards. This move aims to prevent environmental degradation by ensuring that polluting industries adhere to stringent norms, thereby safeguarding public health and promoting sustainable industrial growth in Goa.
Key Takeaways:
- The GSPCB has formed a monitoring cell for 11 highly polluting industrial units in Goa.
- New CPCB guidelines mandate quarterly inspections for these units.
- Inspections have commenced across locations like Bethora, Usgao, and Cuncolim.
- The NGT’s ruling highlighted the need for more frequent checks to curb violations.
- This initiative underscores Goa’s commitment to enhanced environmental protection and regulatory compliance.
