Air pollution levels hit new low: Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB)

Kurnool: Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) which is monitoring pollution levels at several industries in Kurnool district failed to monitor pollution at Rayalaseema Alkalies. This exemption accorded to the company has put health of Kurnool public at stake. PCB website monitoring the real-time data of several companies in the district did not list Rayalaseema Alkalies Ltd and Sree Rayalaseema Hi-Strength Hypo Ltd. Both the companies are going for big expansion in Kurnool. Allegedly, PCB officials are unaware of the fact.

The real time Air Quality Index monitored by Central Pollution Control Board for the city of Kurnool on Friday evening warns that the quality of air breathed may cause discomfort to people with lung disease such as asthma, to people with heart disease along with children and aged persons. 

The values given are Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 is 71 micro grams per metre cube. PCB zonal manager Rajender Reddy said that the quality of air is deteriorating and directed people to wear masks. “The situation is alarming. People are being exposed to hazardous effluents around industrial areas in Gondiparla, Panchalingala and E Thandrapadu, and Kurnool town,” he said.

He said that the prime reason is presence of Rayalaseema Alkalies which is just 3.4 kilometers from Kurnool city.  According to sources, the company is planning expand production of Mono Chloro-Acetic acid production capacity  from 16.7 tonnes per day to 83.5 tonnes per day; coal based co-generation power plant from 3 MW to 13 MW; inclusion of Sodium Methoxide plant of capacity of 20 tonnes per day. “The product is highly corrosive, toxic and a major potential hazard upon contact to skin, eyes and respiratory tract. It is feared that ingestion can cause severe burns of the mucous membranes of the mouth, esophagus and stomach. Pain, nausea and vomiting may also occur,” a source said under the condition of anonymity.

Speaking to this correspondent, Mr Reddy said that PCB assesses the ambient air quality in the state State of Andhra Pradesh. PCB has three zonal fully equipped laboratories located at Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada & Kurnool and nine Regional Offices to carry out the functions laid down in the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

“The public hearing conducted by the PCB has been resented by people as they were not allowed to raise issues relating to pollution in their villages. Re-conducting public hearing has to be decided by the Union ministry of environment,” he said and suggested that whoever wants to submit their grievances can upload them on website of the ministry.