‘Intentional’ violation of water, air pollution norms
Shillong, Dec 22: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) has penalised and issued show cause notice to Star Cement for “intentionally” violating water and air pollution norms in its plant at Lumshnong in East Jaintia Hills district.
An “environmental compensation” of ₹1.20 lakh was imposed against the cement giant to be paid within 15 days failing which action will be taken against the company.
The action against the cement plant was based on a complaint received on violation of terms and conditions of the “Consent to Operate” and subsequent renewals by directly discharging emissions from its unit from December 16, according to letter written by MSPCB member secretary Dr GH Chyrmang to Star Cement.
It was observed that Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS) were found to be offline, according to the letter.
“Star Cement had intentionally violated Section 21 of the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Section 25 & 26 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the terms and conditions of the Consent to Operate from the Board,” the Board stated.
The MSPCB referred to an order of National Green Tribunal (NGT) that empowered the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and SPCBs “to take coercive measures, including recovery of compensation for damages…”
Meanwhile, MSPCB also issued a show cause notice to the cement company regarding the same offence and warned of “ex parte action” in case of failing to submit a proper reply within seven days.
