Maharashtra’s Environment and Climate Change Minister, Pankaja Munde, revealed a comprehensive strategy to address industrial pollution in the state. The plan includes immediate actions for areas like Chandrapur and Bhiwandi. Munde emphasized the need for clean energy transitions and environmental audits for thermal power plants.
In response to concerns raised about pollution from coal washeries and thermal power plants, Munde announced the closure of Mahamaya Coal Washery. She also highlighted upcoming measures for fly ash management and coal dust control. Additionally, the minister emphasized the importance of implementing Flue Gas Desulfurization systems.
The government is actively assessing industrial emissions’ impact on crops and is working on compensation measures for affected areas. Policy decisions are being made to promote afforestation and green belts. A new committee will review bank guarantee amounts for industries to encourage investments in pollution control technologies.
In the Bhiwandi textile cluster, Munde mandated a shift to cleaner fuels for yarn dyeing units. She stressed the prohibition of burning hazardous materials and discussed potential financial assistance for small-scale units. The minister also mentioned the classification and monitoring of textile-related industries by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board.
Regarding Ready Mix Concrete plants and the SMS Company in the Mankhurd-Govandi belt, continuous monitoring is in place. The SMS Company is set to relocate, and strict emission norms must be followed until the process is completed.
