Recently, on the world environment day, the Gujarat Pollution Control Board has reason to rejoice as Ahmedabad dropped to the 12th position on the list of most polluted cities in the country. However, as planned more than 1,500 units in Narol, Naroda, Odhav, Vatva and other Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) areas were to be converted to natural gas over one year. Yet, in the first phase 640 industries, mostly in Vatva, Odhav and Narol, were identified for conversion that was to completed by November 2005. GPCB, which had identified Narol and Vatva as the 'most polluted', had suggested that all large-scale industries there should convert to natural gas during Phase-I. In Phase-II, which was to be completed by February 2006, the Board planned to target units in Odhav GIDC, Naroda GIDC and all foundries to switch to natural gas. However, by May 2006, not even 350 units in the city have been converted to natural gas.

Authorities claim that it is unavailability of gas that has dampened the progress, environmentalists claim it is yet another deadline missed.

Industrial units manufacturing dyes and dye-intermediates account for 59.2% of the hazardous wastes generated. These are concentrated in the industrial estates of Odhav, Naroda and Vatva. Without much concern for environmental norms, Gujarat embarked on a journey of industrialization with massive chemical estates coming up in the Odhav and Vatva, it's a great concern for human dwelling around the area. The Go green celebrations are all with a bang but the fever dries up once the environment day is gone. Aren't the factory owners responsible for a lot of pollution or is corruption at its heights?

- Swagat

The Blog re-starts with more of blogging on Chemicals, Dyes Intermediates news, Insurance, Car Finance n Car makes, Travel to places and so on. Keep reading n keep the faith! Enjoy.