APPCB Issues Alert Against Bhogi Air Pollution
In a communication, Member Secretary S. Srisaravanan said that deteriorating air quality in cities and towns has been worsened by the burning of plastics, tyres, rubber, electronic waste and other hazardous materials, which release toxic emissions harmful to public health.
Visakhapatnam: The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) has issued urgent directions to all municipal commissioners across the state to prevent the open burning of solid waste during the Bhogi festival and in the days that follow.
In a communication, Member Secretary S. Srisaravanan said that deteriorating air quality in cities and towns has been worsened by the burning of plastics, tyres, rubber, electronic waste and other hazardous materials, which release toxic emissions harmful to public health.
The APPCB said such practices generate particulate matter, dioxins, furans and other pollutants, posing serious health risks, particularly to children, the elderly and people with respiratory and cardiac ailments. Municipal bodies have been directed to issue clear instructions to sanitary staff to strictly prohibit the burning of unsegregated waste in public places, dump yards, streets and vacant lands.
The Board has also asked local bodies to conduct public awareness campaigns through posters, social media, ward meetings and by involving resident welfare associations, schools, colleges, NGOs and health departments. Special emphasis has been placed on strengthening waste collection and transportation during the festival period to prevent garbage accumulation.
Enforcement teams, in coordination with the police and APPCB officials, will monitor vulnerable locations, especially at night and early morning. Commissioners have been told to ensure strict compliance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.