Patna: Dr. Prem Kumar, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, reviewed the activities of the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) and inspected the Board’s Central Laboratory on Wednesday.
The BSPCB Chairman, Dr D.K. Shukla, briefed the Minister on the Board’s operations, including the monitoring of water quality in the Ganga and its tributaries. He also highlighted the establishment of 35 continuous ambient air quality monitoring centers across 23 districts. Despite facing a significant manpower shortage with 200 vacant positions out of 249, the Board continues to fulfill its responsibilities.
The Minister was informed about the steps taken to address the staffing issue. The Board has notified appointment and service rules for various cadres and has submitted requisitions for 36 posts to the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) and 17 posts to the General Administration Department. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is also monitoring the recruitment process, with a directive to fill all vacancies by April 30, 2025.
The Chairman provided an overview of global efforts to combat climate change, including the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. He emphasised the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the impact of climate change.
The Minister inspected the central laboratory and observed the water and air sample analysis procedures. He commended the Board’s work despite the challenges posed by limited resources.
The Board is currently constructing a new air laboratory building in the Patliputra Industrial Area, equipped with modern equipment to enhance air pollution monitoring and research. This building will adhere to green building standards and is estimated to cost Rs 18.70 crore.
Furthermore, the Board has granted consent to two e-waste recycling units, Shriram E-Waste Recyclers and Traders in Samastipur and USH India Recycler Pvt. Ltd. in Aurangabad, for their establishment and operation.
