Ambuja Cement Hit with Rs 6.6L Green Penalty
In a stern reminder of the importance of adhering to environmental regulations, Ambuja Cement’s Rauri plant in Darlaghat has been slapped with a hefty ₹6.6 lakh environmental compensation (EC) for violations of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. The penalty has been imposed for a period spanning from 8 December to 30 December, 2024, after a series of inspections revealed that the plant had failed to maintain necessary equipment and control emissions.
The issue came to light following multiple inspections carried out by the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), which identified operational issues within the plant machinery. According to the findings, the plant’s pre-heater duct ruptured due to a failure in power supply, leading to increased air pollution. The breakdown in the cyclone and subsequent emissions from the unit further contributed to environmental degradation. Despite several notifications, including show-cause notices issued on 12, 16, and 27 December, the plant failed to take corrective action promptly. A shutdown of operations was enforced on 11 December 2024, after repeated violations were observed. The Regional Officer of SPCB, Anil Kumar, stated that despite several inspections and warnings, the plant’s management neglected timely repairs, leaving operations non-compliant with pollution control measures.
Air pollution control devices, crucial to limiting harmful emissions like nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide, were reportedly not functioning as required, causing additional environmental hazards. The imposition of the fine follows instructions from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), underscoring the seriousness of protecting air quality. The cement industry, which is a significant contributor to air pollution due to the emission of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and other pollutants, has been under increasing scrutiny from regulatory authorities. The Rauri plant’s failure to meet air quality standards is a stark reminder of the need for industrial units to prioritise environmental safety. The case highlights the growing pressure on cement manufacturers in India to ensure compliance with stringent environmental norms, as regulatory bodies intensify their enforcement actions. With environmental concerns at an all-time high, this fine could signal a shift towards more rigorous accountability for industrial polluters in the country.
