665 units in state generating hazardous waste, admits govt

Raipur: The issue of industrial pollution and hazardous waste management figured prominently in the Question Hour of Chhattisgarh assembly on Friday, with Leader of Opposition Charan Das Mahant raising concerns over the pace of emission monitoring and its implications for long-term environmental goals. The state govt admitted that 665 industrial units across the state are currently generating hazardous waste, posing significant risks to human health, livestock, and the environment. Responding on behalf of the govt, environment minister OP Choudhary confirmed the figures and outlined the situation.Expressing concern over the sharp increase, Mahant pointed out that during a previous assembly session on Feb 23, 2024, the number of polluting industries was stated to be 163. He questioned the steep rise to 665 within a short span, highlighting the growing environmental and health implications.In response, the minister said that pollution control measures, including the installation of Electrostatic Precipitators in industrial chimneys, are in place to curb emissions. However, complaints have emerged that some industries switch off these systems to save electricity, resulting in unchecked pollution.The minister informed the House that Online Emission Monitoring Systems have been installed in 19 industries so far. Additionally, IoT-based monitoring infrastructure has been implemented in 124 of the 146 targeted units, with deployment costs borne by the Environment Board. He added that the govt aims to bring all industries under this digital monitoring framework in the near future.On funding, the minister clarified that no separate budget allocation has been made for installing monitoring systems, as industries are required to bear the cost under ‘Consent to Operate' provisions. The equipment costs between Rs 4 lakh and Rs 5 lakh, with additional resources generated through penalties imposed on violators.Highlighting administrative reforms, Choudhary said that earlier gaps — particularly the absence of Regional Officers — affected effective monitoring. A revised organisational structure has now been introduced, and all posts are expected to be filled within a year to strengthen oversight. The discussion also covered pollution concerns in major industrial hubs such as Raigarh, Korba, and Raipur.Mahant raised specific queries regarding waste generated by facilities like BALCO in Korba, including metal-bearing waste and fly ash. In reply, the minister acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and detailed steps taken to improve waste management.He said a 50-acre scientific landfill site has been developed by the Chhattisgarh State Industrial Development Corporation under a Public-Private Partnership model. Operational since May 23, 2025, the facility is designed to safely manage 60,000 metric tonnes of hazardous waste every year for up to 30 years. The minister clarified that it will handle only waste generated within the state and not accept material from outside.Despite these measures, concerns over the health impact of industrial pollution persist. Mahant called for a comprehensive Health Impact Assessment in key industrial regions to evaluate long-term effects on residents.