Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) chairman Dr P. Krishnaiah on Sunday conducted a surprise inspection of a tyre pyrolysis unit at Paritala village in NTR district and found several serious violations of pollution control norms. During the inspection, conducted without prior notice, Dr Krishnaiah expressed concern over the condition of the unit and the implementation of prescribed pollution control measures. The premises were found to be unhygienic, with waste materials, used tyres, sludge and other refuse scattered across the site. The Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), a key component of the pollution control system, was also found to be functioning improperly. The Chairman further observed that excess gas generated during the pyrolysis process was being burnt at ground level, contrary to prescribed norms. As per the norms, flare gas is required to be burnt through a 30-metre-high stack. However, the inspection found that the flare gas was being burnt inside a ground-level room.
Dr Krishnaiah directed officials to examine the unit’s compliance with the Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) conditions. He said similar units operating in remote areas across the State needed comprehensive inspection. As tyre pyrolysis units fall under the Red Category of industries, the Chairman directed all Zonal Officers to personally inspect such units in their jurisdictions and submit detailed reports by October 7. The reports should include photographs, videos showing the present condition of the units and test reports relating to ETP discharge.
Regarding the Paritala unit, Regional Officers were directed to conduct a personal inspection and submit a report within three days explaining how the CTO was issued when mandatory pollution control infrastructure was not fully in place. Dr Krishnaiah also ordered issuance of a Stop Production Order against the unit and directed officials to initiate the process of levying Environmental Compensation as per the prescribed procedure. APPCB NTR District Regional Officer Srinivasa Rao said negligence in environmental protection would not be tolerated and strict action would be taken against industries violating pollution control norms.
