The Industrial town of Mandi Gobindgarh, which had been billowing out toxic smoke and other residue polluting the environment...

The Industrial town of Mandi Gobindgarh, which had been billowing out toxic smoke and other residue polluting the environment and spreading lung disease, has been told to install air pollution control devices with immediate effect by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB). The mills have been directed to install a canopy-type smoke collector on its rolling units so that the smoke is filtered before being released into the atmosphere.

The mills have been directed to install a canopy-type smoke collector

A wet scrubber or bag filter in the device sucks the poisonous substances and another residue from the smoke. This new device will cut down on the RPM (respiratory particulate matter) in a big way. The PPCB will extend technological help in the installation process. According to Environment Engineer Rakesh Nayyar, a time limit has been fixed for the installation of these devices and the mills have been told to follow the norms in letter and in spirit.

The PPCB will extend technological help in the installation process

The board has threatened stern action against erring mills which do not follow the installation instructions. PPCB Chairman Kahan Singh Pannu said: “The Board is committed to creating a healthy and pollution-free atmosphere, which is essential for every human being.

The board has threatened stern action against erring mills

It has also made an action plan to create awareness among the owners of induction rolling mills regarding wet scrubber or bag filter.” The board was also taking certain more measures to create a pollution-free atmosphere in Mandi Gobindgarh.