Maharashtra Environment Minister Directs Coal Industries to Implement Pollution Control Measures Maharashtra environment minister Pankaja Munde has instructed coal mining and coal washery operators in Chandrapur and Yavatmal districts to develop and execute a time-bound action plan to address air and water pollution. During a review meeting in Mumbai attended by representatives of coal companies, senior officials from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), and industry stakeholders, Munde emphasized the need for tangible results over procedural meetings. She directed the industries to outline short-term, medium-term, and long-term pollution control strategies, with detailed reports on their planned actions to be submitted within three months. The meeting focused on assessing current pollution levels, identifying major contamination sources, and discussing measures to enhance environmental conditions in the region. Munde highlighted that coal mining, coal washeries, and coal transportation are the primary contributors to pollution in the area. She called for a gradual transition from road transport to more efficient methods such as railways, conveyor belts, and covered conveyor systems to reduce dust emissions. Additionally, she mandated the creation of buffer zones around mines and washeries to minimize the impact of pollution on nearby residential areas. Munde’s directives underscore the urgency of addressing environmental concerns linked to coal operations. The pollution control measures aim to mitigate the adverse effects of industrial activities on local ecosystems and communities. The MPCB officials and industry representatives are expected to collaborate closely to implement these strategies, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.#yavatmal #chandrapur #pankaja_munde #maharashtra_pollution_control_board #maharashtra_environment_minister
