HDMC Commissioner Served Show Cause Notice: Air Quality Plummets Due to Open Burning

Hubballi: The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has issued a show cause notice to the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) Commissioner for failing to curb open burning of solid waste at the garbage yard on Karwar Road.

The KSPCB’s Dharwad office has taken a serious stance on the issue, criticizing the commissioner for inaction. The notice highlights that previous show cause notices were issued without receiving any response or compliance report from the HDMC.

The KSPCB has also acknowledged receiving numerous complaints from the public and the Hesige Maddi Teravu Horata Samiti (environmental activist group) regarding the ongoing waste burning practices. Despite repeated reminders and communication, the HDMC has allegedly failed to take any steps towards implementing scientific disposal methods for legacy waste.

Air Quality Violation:

The KSPCB notice further states that ambient air quality monitoring was conducted at the SWM facility on Karwar Road, Hubballi, between January 1, 2023, and April 13, 2023. Analysis of the reports revealed particulate matter (PM10) exceeding the permissible limits set by the ambient air quality standards. The recorded PM10 values were 309 micrograms/m3 and 351 micrograms/m3, significantly higher than the standard of 100 micrograms/m3. This data clearly indicates the burning of municipal solid waste, contributing to air pollution in the surrounding areas and violating the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.

Strict Action Demanded:

The KSPCB’s regional office has directed the HDMC commissioner to take immediate action to stop the burning of municipal solid waste and submit a detailed action report within seven days of receiving the notice.

The notice also warns of stricter actions, including a recommendation to the KSPCB head office to initiate proceedings under Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. This could involve levying environmental compensation for non-compliance.

The notice concludes with a stern warning: “If no reply is received within the stipulated time, this office will presume that you do not have anything to say and will proceed with action as stated above.”