TNPCB directed to order closure of erring tanneries
Special Correspondent
CHENNAI: The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to order immediate closure of Erode-based tanneries and bleaching units, if it was found that the units had not installed reverse osmosis plants to achieve zero discharge of effluents.
Passing a detailed order on the status of tanneries in the region and the approach to be adopted by the TNPCB towards each of them, the First Bench comprising Chief Justice A.P. Shah and Justice P. Jyothimani said the court-appointed Monitoring Committee should visit the units which had intimated the committee that they had installed the treatment plants. Directing the units to deposit Rs. 1 lakh, the Bench said Rs. 75,000 of the sum would be refunded to the units if they were found to have complied with the requirements.
If the inspection revealed any inadequacy, the Board should order closure of erring units.
As regards the units which had sought more time to complete installation of reverse osmosis plants, the Bench said, “it may be remembered that the court has granted sufficient time to the defaulting units to install RO. Now, they would apply to the TNPCB that they would install RO within three months. During the period, the units concerned will pay a fine of three paise per every litre of untreated effluents let out. The amount shall be paid to the District Collector.”
RO plants
Besides, the units would deposit Rs. 50,000 each with the TNPCB within two weeks. In case of their failure to install RO plants within three months, the deposit will stand forfeited, the Bench said. It also made it clear that no unit would be allowed to function without obtaining consent from the TNPCB. The units, which seek to switch over to bleaching works from dyeing activities, should dismantle the dyeing facilities and file an affidavit with the Board for consent.
Printer friendly
page Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
