In a significant move concerning environmental regulations, the Odisha State Pollution Control Board has issued a show-cause notice to Visa Steel, located in Kalinganagar, Jajpur district. The notice comes in response to claims that the steel plant has been polluting nearby water bodies, violating established environmental norms. The action was initiated after a petition was filed by Ashwini Kumar Dhal, the president of the Kalinganagar Paribesh Suraksha Samiti, an environmental advocacy group.
The notice was formally issued on Wednesday and requires Visa Steel to address the allegations within 15 days. Failure to comply may lead to legal action against the plant, as indicated by an official from the OSPCB’s regional office in Kalinganagar. This strict timeline underscores the seriousness with which the OSPCB views the potential environmental impacts of the steel plant's operations on local communities.
Manoj Kumar, the director of Visa Steel, stated that the company has not yet received the notice. He assured that once they are formally notified, they will take the necessary steps to comply with OSPCB's directives. The situation highlights the importance of environmental compliance for industrial operations, especially in areas sensitive to ecological disruption.
Visa Steel operates an integrated steel plant that includes a captive power plant and a ferro chrome plant. Their operational consent from the OSPCB is currently valid until March 31, 2025, and is contingent upon strict adherence to specified conditions aimed at mitigating environmental impact. The allegations of pollution could jeopardize this consent, putting pressure on the company to resolve any outstanding issues promptly.
The community's concerns, as articulated by Ashwini Kumar Dhal, reflect a growing awareness and activism regarding environmental protection in industrial zones. The Kalinganagar region, known for its industrial activities, has witnessed increasing scrutiny regarding how these operations affect local ecosystems and public health. The involvement of the Kalinganagar Paribesh Suraksha Samiti signals a broader push for accountability among corporations.
Environmental regulations are crucial in ensuring that industries operate sustainably and do not harm local ecosystems. The OSPCB's action serves as a reminder to all companies within the sector about the need to adhere to environmental standards. As the situation develops, the response from Visa Steel will be closely watched by both regulatory authorities and the local community.
