SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, April 23: The Jharkhand Assembly Committee on Environment and Pollution Control has instructed Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) and other coal-related companies to strictly follow established guidelines for coal mining, transportation, and overburden dumping (soil, rocks and other material of mines) to prevent pollution and ensure public safety.
The committee, chaired by MLA Umashankar Akela, convened a meeting at the Dhanbad Circuit House with district officials to address concerns regarding pollution from coal mining activities. The committee emphasized the need for BCCL to take measures to minimize pollution, including covering coal loads during transportation and ensuring proper management of overburden waste.
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Environmental Protection as a Priority
The meeting was attended by several MLAs, including Potka MLA Sajeev Sardar, Sisai MLA Jiga Susaram Horo, and Bokaro MLA Sweta Singh, who voiced strong support for the guidelines.
Speaking to the media, Bokaro MLA Sweta Singh stated that environmental protection is a top priority for the state government. She said all companies have been instructed to strictly follow established guidelines for coal mining and overburden dumping, keeping in mind the concerns and well-being of the local population.
Addressing Pollution Complaints
The committee discussed various applications from the public, particularly complaints related to pollution caused by BCCL, Hindustan Urvarak and Rasayan Limited (HURL) Sindri, Maithon Power Limited (MPL), and other industrial units. The discussions focused on ensuring that industrial operations align with environmental regulations.
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Presence of District Officials
Prior to the meeting, Dhanbad Deputy Commissioner Madhavi Mishra welcomed the committee members.
Key officials present included Deputy Development Commissioner Sadat Anwar, Divisional Forest Officer Vikash Paliwal, Additional Collector Vinod Kumar, DMC Commissioner Raviraj Sharma, SDM Rajesh Kumar, Assistant Labour Commissioner Praveen Kumar, District Mining Officer Ritesh Tigga, and Civil Surgeon Dr. Chandrabhanu Pratapan.
The Assembly Committee’s directive serves as a reminder of the state’s responsibility to safeguard the environment while balancing industrial activities in the region.
