INDIA. Mumbai: On the occasion of World Environment Day 2023, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has implemented measures to address air pollution by setting guidelines for generator sets.
In an official order issued on June 3 by Pravin Darade, Member Secretary of the MPCB, it was highlighted that vehicles, diesel generators, and construction dust are significant contributors to air pollution, according to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. To combat this issue, the ministry has launched the National Clean Air Program aimed at preventing air pollution.
Under this program, diesel generators have been identified as a major source of air pollution in various Indian states and cities. Therefore, it is crucial to take steps to mitigate air pollution by retrofitting emission control devices.
In accordance with the MPCB’s order, all industries, projects, airports, and railways that use diesel generators with a gross mechanical power of 800 KW (1000 KVA) and above are advised to adopt retrofitted emission control equipment. These devices should possess a minimum specified particulate matter capturing efficiency of at least 70 percent.
Alternatively, users have the option to switch to gas-based generators either by retrofitting existing generators to allow partial usage of gas (a mixture of diesel and gas) or by purchasing new gas-based generators. Compliance with these guidelines should be achieved within 120 days, as stated in the order.
Coinciding with World Environment Day 2023, which focuses on the theme of #BeatPlasticPollution, INS Trata, a Naval Establishment located in Worli, South Central Mumbai, conducted a cleanup activity targeting plastic waste in the mangroves and beach area of Bandra, North West Mumbai.
The initiative, organized on Saturday, witnessed the participation of approximately 120 personnel from INS Trata, STAMP NGO, and school children. Together, they cleared an area of around one square kilometer, successfully collecting over a ton of waste.
The event was part of the Government of India’s ongoing efforts to address environmental issues, as mentioned in an official statement.
INS Trata serves as a missile battery base of the Indian Navy in Mumbai, entrusted with the coastal defense of Maharashtra and Gujarat. Its primary role is to safeguard Indian naval bases and ship against enemy ship attacks.
Furthermore, the Naval Dockyard in South Mumbai organized a two-day workshop conducted by renowned speakers from the National Safety Council. The workshops focused on e-Waste Management and the Harmful Effects of Plastic on the Marine Environment.
The enthusiastic participation of the yard workers, coupled with the exchange of information and discussions on alternatives to plastic, made the workshops highly effective.
Participants from 100 centers of the dockyard expressed their commitment to environmental preservation by following the guidelines of #Refuse #Reduce #Reuse #Recycle.
Additionally, a quiz competition was held as part of the workshops to enhance awareness among the workers.
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