TGPCB recommends closures, forfeitures over dusty construction

The Telangana Pollution Control Board (TGPCB) has received several complaints regarding air pollution caused by dust emissions from construction projects in the Tellapur and Kollur areas of Sangareddy district. After receiving several complaints of air pollution due to construction, the Pollution Control Board (TGPCB) constituted Rolling Task Force Teams to these projects and assess compliance with environmental regulations and implementation of air pollution control measures.

The team embarked on inspections and observed dust emissions from construction activity was aggravating air pollution. Several violations of environmental norms were also identified, the TGPCB stated.

The Committee reviewed the environmental compliance of as many as 16 construction projects. After examining the severity of the violations, committee recommended the issuing of closure orders against projects where serious violations were identified, along with the forfeiture of bank guarantees. The committee also recommended forfeiture of bank guarantees in respect of projects where minor violations were observed. A period of 10 days was recommended for the concerned projects to rectify the violations.

Three construction projects began construction activity without obtaining Consent for Establishment (CFE) from the Pollution Control Board, the TGPCB stated. The committee recommended the issuance of closure orders against these projects, it added. Two others were continuing construction activities in violation of the Orders for Suspension of Operations previously issued by the TGPCB, without obtaining permission from the Board for revocation of the suspension orders.

A Ready Mix Concrete plant operating in association with another construction project was found to be functioning without obtaining Consent for Operation (CFO) from the TGPCB. The plant was also found to be lacking adequate air pollution control measures, thereby contributing to air pollution in the surrounding areas. The Task Force Committee recommended closure of the operations of this RMC plant as well.