Chandrapur:Maharashtra environment minister Pankaja Munde has directed coal mining and coal washery operators in Chandrapur and Yavatmal to implement a time-bound action plan to curb air and water pollution in the two districts.Stressing that visible results, rather than meetings, should be the priority, Munde asked industries to draw up short, medium and long-term pollution control measures and submit a detailed report on the action planned over the next three months.The directions were issued at a review meeting in Mumbai attended by representatives of coal mines and washeries, senior Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) officials and industry stakeholders. The meeting reviewed pollution levels, major sources of contamination and measures needed to improve environmental conditions.Munde said coal mining, coal washeries and coal transportation were the main contributors to pollution in the region. She called for a gradual shift from road transport to railways, conveyor belts and covered conveyor systems to reduce dust emissions. She also directed industries to create buffer zones around mines and washeries to minimise the impact of pollution on nearby residential areas.The minister asked industries to use corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds for environmental conservation, afforestation, healthcare, schools, roads and other essential infrastructure in surrounding villages. She assured govt support for infrastructure projects wherever required.Munde also directed industries to document pollution levels before and after implementing mitigation measures through photographs and other records, allowing authorities to assess the effectiveness of the measures.MPCB member secretary Rahul Rekhawar presented a three-tier pollution control strategy. Immediate measures include dust suppression technology, improved coal handling and better transport management. Medium-term measures include expanding effluent and sewage treatment facilities, scientific waste management and developing green belts. Long-term measures include adopting sustainable technologies and cleaner energy sources, achieving zero liquid discharge and minimising industrial emissions.Munde directed coal mines and washeries to submit a comprehensive three-month action plan covering dust control, plantation drives, public awareness initiatives and other environmental protection measures.
