Karnataka - Belgaum   

Govt. criticised for failing to implement environmental laws

By Our Staff Correspondent

BELGAUM, JAN. 21. Prominent speakers at a one-day workshop on "National Environment Policy 2004-An Instrument To Reduce Industrial Pollution" here criticised the Government in general and the department concerned in particular for not effectively implementing the laws relating to environment protection.

The BJP Lok Sabha member from Belgaum, Suresh Angadi, who inaugurated the workshop, said though legislatures and Parliament had passed legislation to prevent environmental pollution, the commitment did not reflect effectively when it came to its implementation.

The workshop was organised by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, the Akhil Bharat Vidyavant Nirudyogigala Para Horata Samiti and the Institute of Indian Foundrymen, Belgaum Chapter. The objective of the workshop was to elicit different views on the National Environment Policy-2004 from cross sections of society. However, the workshop was mainly meant to facilitate an open debate on the policy among industrialists in the district.

Calling for a change in the mindset at every level, Mr. Angadi advocated environment education to children right from their school days. "The child must grow along with a tree, he said.

He said a mass movement was required to create widespread awareness against various forms of pollution and its impact on ecology and biodiversity by involving voluntary organisations both in urban and rural areas. The KSPCB officials and those showing concern for environmental protection should first reach the slums and villages to create awareness on cleanliness and tree plantation.

Though the country had achieved industrial progress, it was at the cost of forests which were diminishing at an alarming rate. A large number of trees were being felled every day to meet the requirements of urbanisation resulting in changes in climatic conditions and poor rainfall. So much that even drinking water had now become precious, he said.

"This generation is destroying forests to suit its luxury and comforts and has little concern for environmental protection. If it continued to do so, the next generation will never forgive us," he said

Mr. Angadi said the Government should deal with those found guilty of causing pollution and destroying the environment.

B.L. Patil, member, CAPART pointed out at the increasing rate of river pollution caused by industries releasing effluents. The forest cover, which was

63 per cent some years ago, had now dwindled to 9.5 per cent. Yet, there was little realisation about the possible consequences of environmental degradation and increasing pollution.

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