The Hindu : Front Page : Breathe easy, pollution levels not high

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Feb 25, 2007
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Breathe easy, pollution levels not high

R. Sairam

MADURAI: Pollution levels in the city are very much within specified norms of Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board . They are being monitored round-the-clock and the levels are not alarming, according to J. Dhanasingh, Joint Chief Environment Engineer.

Air pollution in Madurai was very low as there were only a few industries operating and they have all conformed to the stipulated pollution norms. Industries were classified into three categories and periodical checks conducted to ensure compliance. Pollution levels were recorded at three monitoring stations — Kochadai, near Central Market and Alagarkoil Road — covering residential, commercial and industrial areas.

The levels of sulphur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, suspended particulate matter and `respirable particulate matter' were also recorded. Samples from the readings were being taken every eight hours, twice a week from each station. Readings were also being taken during occasions such as `Bhogi.'

The sound levels were also monitored to see if they fall under `ambient air quality standards.'

Madurai was one among five places in Tamil Nadu to possess National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations.

The `Eco park' to come up at T. Karisalkulam was expected to function in the next few months, Mr. Dhanasingh said. Small and tiny electroplating units, which were functioning at Jaihindpuram and K. Pudur, had been directed to shift their operations to T. Karisalkulam. The Rs. 30 crore-park would house 80 units, altogether generating wastes up to 330 kilolitres a day.

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