Shillong, May 6: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has ordered an Umiam-based ferro alloy company to suspend operation for 45 days following detection of high emission and inconsistencies in online transmission of emission data.
The “consent to operate” of M/s RNB Carbide & Ferro Alloys Pvt Ltd was suspended until its pollution control device (PCD) is completely overhauled and deemed efficient.
The decision follows an inspection by MSPCB officials on April 24 at the company’s Ferro Silicon manufacturing unit located in Umiam Industrial Estate, Ri-Bhoi.
The inspection revealed heavy emissions from the stack and inconsistencies in the Online Continuous Emission Monitoring System (OCEMS) data transmission.
While the PCD was found operational, the unit informed the board that it is currently undergoing an overhaul and requested 45 days to complete the process.
In response, MSPCB member secretary Dr GH Chyrmang issued an official directive, suspending the company’s consent to operate with immediate effect.
Dr Chyrmang warned that failure to adhere to the directive could result in legal action under the applicable provisions of the Water and Air Pollution Control Acts.
The company was first granted its consent to operate on December 16, 2003, with periodic renewals. The most recent consent was granted on May 3, 2024, allowing operations up to March 31, 2026, for a production capacity of 10,950 MTPA.
