Punjab environment minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer expressed concern over discharge of partially treated/ untreated domestic effluents from various towns into rivers of the state and directed authorities to take steps to stop this practice.
Over the years, rivers of the state have become polluted due to reckless dumping of chemical-laden waste by factories.
During a meeting with Rahul Tewari, secretary (science technology and environment); Adarsh Pal Vig, chairman of Punjab Pollution Control Board; and other officials, the minister discussed matters related to status of implementation of pollution control laws, water testing and problems faced by the department in enforcement and steps which can be taken to ensure proper implementation.
The minister instructed officers of Punjab Pollution Control Board to increase checking of industrial units for ensuring proper compliance of environmental laws and take strict action against violators. During the meeting, he stressed on the need to implement the ban on plastic carry bags and create awareness among manufacturers, traders, stockers and general public.
On the issue of stubble burning, officers of the board informed the minister regarding various in-situ and ex-situ measures being taken.