The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) is responsible for monitoring and regulating environmental parameters in Punjab, including air and water quality, to ensure they meet national standards.
Water Quality Parameters:
For drinking water, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) specifies acceptable limits for various parameters, such as pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness, and concentrations of heavy metals and microbial contaminants. Agricultural water quality is assessed based on factors like salinity, sodium absorption ratio (SAR), and the presence of harmful chemicals, which can affect soil health and crop productivity.
Air Quality Parameters:
The National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) set permissible limits for pollutants including particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O₃), and lead. These standards are designed to protect public health and the environment.
PPCB’s Compliance and Initiatives:
The PPCB has implemented various measures to monitor and control pollution levels:
Monitoring Networks: The board has established monitoring stations across the state to regularly assess air and water quality.
Regulatory Actions: Industries are required to obtain consent to establish and operate, ensuring compliance with environmental standards. The PPCB conducts inspections and enforces regulations under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act.
Public Awareness: Initiatives are in place to educate the public and industries about pollution control measures and the importance of adhering to environmental standards.
Challenges and Observations:
Despite these efforts, challenges remain:
Air Pollution: Cities like Ludhiana and Jalandhar have been identified with high Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) scores, indicating significant pollution levels. Action plans have been developed to restore air quality to prescribed standards. Water Pollution: Industrial discharges and agricultural runoff contribute to water pollution. The PPCB monitors these sources and has set up demonstration plants for pollution control in small-scale units.
Budget and Expenditure:
Specific details regarding the total budget allocated to the PPCB, particularly the Patiala office, are not readily available in the provided sources. However, it’s noted that a budget of Rs. 100 crore has been allocated for certain environmental initiatives.
Conclusion:
The PPCB is actively working to monitor and improve air and water quality in Punjab. While significant progress has been made, ongoing efforts and increased funding are essential to address the persistent environmental challenges in the state.