PCB directive for zero-effluent system

 
The State Pollution Control Board (PCB) has directed 20 industries on the banks of the Periyar to set up zero-discharge systems in two years.

Industries which could not achieve zero discharge were asked to reduce the quantum of effluents discharged by them by 80 percent. Besides, 31 industries were asked to raise their discharge pipes above the water level for better monitoring.

The Health Minister, P.K.Sreemathy  said the Board had taken steps for continous monitoring and recording of water quality of the Periyar. Industries were asked to set up online monitoring systems and delay ponds. The blue print for a common waste processing plant for small industries was ready.

The Board had issued notice to 62 steel industries in Palakkad district to put in place pollution-control measures. Of them, 44 units had been given four months to set up the facilities on the basis of bank guarantees while six units had been asked to close down.

(The Hindu, 2 January 2007)