Jalandhar/Ludhiana/ Patiala/ Bathinda, September 19: The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has issued notices to 11 tyre pyrolysis oil units (TPOUs) across the state for violating environmental safeguards, following a coordinated inspection drive that covered 17 operational plants.
The statewide raids, carried out by 17 teams of Environmental Engineers, came after farmers and residents complained about pollution from the facilities. The inspections targeted units in Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, and other districts to assess compliance with pollution control measures, safety standards, and waste disposal norms.
Officials said tyre pyrolysis involves processing discarded tyres in oxygen-free conditions to produce oil and carbon black. If not operated under the prescribed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and state government, the process can create severe hazards such as toxic smoke emissions, unsafe handling of pyro gas, and improper disposal of char residue.
Of the 17 units inspected, 11 were found lacking adequate air pollution control devices, safe pyro gas systems, or proper effluent and residue management. Notices have been issued to these units for corrective action.
“The Board is committed to protecting Punjab’s environment and public health. We are determined to ensure that industries adopt clean and safe technologies,” a PPCB spokesperson said. “Non-compliance with environmental safeguards will not be tolerated, and strict action will continue against violators.”
The spokesperson added that the PPCB will maintain strict monitoring to balance industrial growth with ecological safety.
