Question : POLLUTION CAUSED BY INDUSTRIAL UNITS

(a) whether the industrial units are causing environmental pollution in and around Delhi as reported in the ‘Dainik Jagran’ dated December 17,2007;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Government has conducted any study in this regard;

(d) if so, the outcome thereof including the details of such industrial units causing pollution;

(e) the action taken against these industrial units found guilty of causing pollution; and

(f) the measures taken / proposed to be taken by the Government to check industrial pollution?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a)&(b) The news item covered in ‘Dainik Jagran’ dated 17.12.07 is regarding impact of pollution on the health of children. In this regard, based on the data of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the ambient air quality data for the last six years i.e. 2000 to 2006 of Delhi has witnessed a significant reduction in pollution levels. Sulphur dioxide (SO2) levels have fallen by 44% in 2006 as compared to 2000. Carbon Monoxide (CO) levels declined by 46% in 2006 as compared to 2000. In the year 2006, Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) and Nitrous Oxide (NO2) levels have increased by 0.6% and 34% respectively as compared to 2000.

(c)&(d) A Source Apportionment Study has been undertaken by CPCB to ascertain the contribution of pollution from different sources including industrial sector. The study is in progress.

(e) As reported by Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), since 01.04.07, 58 industrial units have been issued directions for closure under Section 31(A) of Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 for violation of the provisions of the Act.

(f) The following steps have been taken to check the industrial pollution:

# Notification of general and industry specific emission and effluent standards;

# Industries to obtain “Consent for Establishment” as well as “Consent to Operate” under the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 from the concerned State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) prior to carrying out operations;

# Environmental Impact Assessment of developmental projects and preparation of Environmental Management Plan as per the provisions of the Environmental Impact Assessment notification of September, 2006;

# Adoption of cleaner technologies and use of improved fuel quality;

# Regular monitoring of industrial units for environmental compliance;

# Issuance of directions in cases of industries not complying with environmental norms;