In a significant move to mitigate environmental degradation, Forest and Environment Minister Ishwara Khandre has spearheaded the enforcement of a state-wide mandate, allowing only green firecrackers in Karnataka. With a firm commitment to curbing harmful emissions and pollutants, the minister emphasized the need for stringent enforcement and public awareness to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
Source: DH
The implementation of the green firecracker policy in the state follows a recent court order prohibiting the production, transportation, storage, and sale of environmentally harmful fireworks. Minister Khandre, speaking at a progress review meeting held at the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board office, emphasized the critical role of comprehensive inspections at state borders to prevent the entry of hazardous fireworks from neighboring states. The introduction of a QR code system for green crackers was also highlighted, enabling consumers to verify the eco-friendliness of their purchased fireworks easily.
Awareness campaigns targeting people of all ages are set to be rolled out, with the aim of promoting the use of green firecrackers while discouraging the use of smoke-emitting and hazardous alternatives. Additionally, the efficient handling of pending applications seeking No Objection Letters (NOC) has been stressed upon, with clear directives provided to expedite the processing of these applications within specific time frames based on the categorization of industrial units.
Source: Op India
The minister also addressed the issue of large housing complexes around Bellandur Lake in Bengaluru city, which have been contributing to water pollution. Noting the delay in the collection of fines from these complexes, Minister Khandre affirmed the authorities’ commitment to ensuring compliance with the law and pursuing the development of the lake. He underscored the challenges of collecting fines from homeowners, emphasizing the adherence to legal procedures while striving for the restoration and preservation of the vital ecosystem.
With a strict timeline set for the completion of a comprehensive wastewater treatment plant (STP) by December 2024, the government has taken decisive steps to hold those responsible for pollution. Notably, significant fines have already been imposed on several building complexes, reflecting the government’s unwavering commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable development.
