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Moradabad industries taking measures to curb exploitation of ground water after UPPCB slaps Rs 2.51 cr on a paper mill

Updated: Nov 18, 2019 09:40:27am
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Moradabad industries taking measures to curb exploitation of ground water after UPPCB slaps Rs 2.51 cr on a paper mill

Moradabad, Nov 18 (KNN) The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has imposed a penalty of Rs 2.51 crore on Moradabad based paper-mill for exploitation of groundwater without procuring no-objection certificate from UPPCB and for production of twice the quantity of paper than the prescribed limit.

The fine has been slapped on Genus paper mill following a National Green Tribunal (NGT) order.

NGT on November 13 directed the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to stop the extraction of groundwater by Genus Paper and Board, Agwanpur, Moradabad district and take action to ensure the compliance of the Hazardous Waste Rules, 2016 and other environmental norms in accordance with law.

The NGT was hearing a complaint about the illegal withdrawal of groundwater and illegal discharge of effluents in the Ganges and its tributaries by the paper industry. The complaint also highlighted the emissions of gases in the environment and illegal expansion of the unit.

A team of officials from the UPPCB conducted a surprise visit at the unit on April 11, after which it submitted a report to its headquarters.

An environment activist approached NGT with the report, following which the apex green court issued its order against the paper manufacturing unit.

Talking to KNN India, Vinay Mangla, Chapter Chairman, Indian Industries Association, Moradabad, said, “Government rules are being followed and we are taking actions to follow the rules. The government has extended last date for compliance and accordingly people are preparing to deal with such things. Definitely, this needs time but it will be done for sure. Suddenly, industries can't be asked to stop the extraction of groundwater. How industries will function without ground water.''

According to a report, the UPPCB has already closed down over 60 furnaces in Moradabad which were running without NOC and causing air pollution.

Similarly, last month, they closed down nine garment manufacturing units along the banks of the Ramganga River and imposed Rs 1.18 crore in fines on them.

Earlier in September, UPPCB slapped a fine of Rs 18 crore on Moradabad Municipal Corporation for discharging untreated sewage into the Ramganga. (KNN Bureau)

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