UPDATE

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is on the guard against the rising pollution from industries again. CPCB has therefore taken an initiative of classifying industrial clusters based on scientific criteria and design action plans accordingly. The rise in pollution is analyzed according to Central Environment Pollution Index (CEPI), following the algorithm of source, pathway and receptor. With an aim of identifying industrial clusters in order of planning needs for interventions, the comprehensive report by the board highlights pollution in air, waster and soil not only as an environmental challenge but also synergistically as a public health challenge.

The present CEPI is intended to act as an early warning tool, which is easy and quick to use. It can help in categorizing the industrial clusters/areas in terms of priority. These industrial clusters/areas shall be investigated to for defining the spatial boundaries as well as the extent of eco-geological damages. The outcome shall be subjected to structured consultation with the stakeholders for determining comparative effectiveness of alternative plans and policies. The effective implementation of the remedial action plan will help in abatement of pollution and to restore the environmental quality of these industrial clusters.