Patna: In a decisive move to combat air pollution, the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) took stringent action on Monday by imposing a hefty fine of Rs61 lakh on M/s Vishal Infrastructure Limited, Patna, a construction firm. The penalty was issued for the company’s failure to implement proper arrangements and non-compliance with air pollution norms at its site.
In addition to the substantial environmental compensation, the private firm received a “Statutory Proposed Closure Direction” on the same day.
The BSPCB, in a released statement, underlined its commitment to maintaining air quality within prescribed limits. The board has deployed teams to conduct surveys across different areas of the state. Actions are being taken promptly wherever an increase in the Ambient Air Quality Index (AQI) is detected, aligning with the recent orders of the National Green Tribunal.
This comes on the heels of a November 11 decision where the BSPCB imposed an environmental compensation of approximately Rs10 lakh on M/s Ahluwalia Contracts (India) Limited, a prominent construction company. The penalty was levied due to the company’s involvement in causing air pollution during construction activities at the Bihar Veterinary College campus in Patna.
Devendra Kumar Shukla, Chairman of BSPCB, appealed to the general public to actively contribute to the state pollution control board’s efforts in maintaining air quality. The call for public involvement highlights the collective responsibility required to combat environmental challenges and preserve air quality standards.
