MPCB orders closure of Warada coal washery for flouting norms
In a completely closed notice issued to Maharashtra Minerals Mining and Beneficiation Private Limited, Parseoni District, The Board has stated that the Washery Unit was working in the 'Pollution Prevention Zone'.
Nagpur: Taking a big step against pollution, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has directed the immediate closure of the Gondegaon coal washery in Varda village of Nagpur district.
In a completely closed notice issued to Maharashtra Minerals Mining and Beneficiation Private Limited, Parseoni District, The Board has stated that the Washery Unit was working in the ‘Pollution Prevention Zone’. According to the notice, the officials of the board had inspected a spot on the date of 15 April. And a lot of dust was found in the factory area, Which indicates a serious shortfall in the operation of the air pollution control system.
The officials further observed that the mandatory NOC for groundwater extraction had not been obtained at all. It has been said in the notice that the unit has completely failed to comply with the conditions of environment clearance. This also shows a completely careless attitude towards the implementation of non-compliance environmental laws.
Maharashtra Pollution Control Board Regional Officer AM Kare had also directed the washery to stop all these activities completely. He also asked the concerned officials to disconnect the power and water supply of the unit.
Government has abolished the mandatory washing of coal
Ever since the Gondegaon washery started once again after being closed for more than 15 years, From then onwards the coal dust will accumulate on the crops, which will reduce the yield significantly. Villagers were also complaining of health-related ailments due to pollution.
Even after the on-ground visit, Nagpur-based NGO CFSD had also filed a complaint with the Chairman of CPCB, In which it was said that the coal washery had once again resumed its operations without following the environmental norms. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has also directed Maharashtra Pollution Control Board to take immediate action.
As reported earlier also, the government has completely abolished the mandatory washing of coal for thermal power plants. In a notification also issued on 21st May 2020, it has been said that the process of washing of coal causes widespread pollution. This also further places the responsibility of managing fly ash solely on thermal power plants as they are technically equipped to address pollution control.
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