Newz Desk, Durgapur: In a significant step towards controlling industrial pollution, the West Bengal government is set to introduce real-time environmental monitoring systems across key industrial parks in the state. The initiative, led by the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation (WBIDC), aims to track air and noise pollution levels instantly and strengthen environmental protection measures.
Industrial parks, residents, environmental groups and civic bodies in South Bengal have urged the authorities to implement the same system across the industrial belts. Known as one of Bengal’s major manufacturing hubs, Durgapur, Panagarh, Raniganj and Asansol has long struggled with high levels of dust, emissions and noise stemming from its dense cluster of steel plants, power units and ancillary industries.
Local environmental activists say that real-time monitoring has become an urgent requirement, not just an administrative upgrade. “Industries operate round the clock here, and pollution levels fluctuate drastically within short time spans. A cloud-based real-time system will finally tell us the truth of what we breathe,” said Sourin Sarkar, a member of a local citizens’ forum.
First Phase Targeting Four Major Industrial Parks
In the initial phase, the system will be implemented in:
- Manikanchan SEZ, North 24-Parganas
- Paridhan Garments Park, Kolkata
- Rishi Bankim Industrial Estate, Naihati
- Haldia Industrial Park, East Midnapore
These locations were selected because they house a diverse range of industrial units, necessitating close environmental surveillance.
How the System Will Work
Each industrial park will be equipped with cloud-connected monitoring units capable of measuring:
- Fine particulate matter
- Dust concentration
- Levels of hazardous gases
- Noise pollution
Advanced technology will also help control dust and suspended particles within the parks.
Large digital display boards will be installed at the entry gates of all industrial parks, displaying real-time pollution levels to workers, visitors and local residents.
If pollution levels rise suddenly, the system will immediately send emergency alerts to the concerned authorities. A rapid-response protocol is being drafted to ensure quick action in such scenarios.
Installation Deadline and Maintenance
The implementing agency has been instructed to complete installation of all equipment within six months. Most devices will have a mandatory 36-month maintenance contract to ensure uninterrupted operation.
Building a Long-Term Database
Officials associated with the environmental monitoring project said a major objective is to create a long-term pollution database. This repository will help identify pollution trends in industrial belts and guide future industrial expansion and infrastructure planning.
The initiative is expected to mark a major advancement in pollution control across West Bengal’s industrial zones, ensuring sustainable development while safeguarding public health.
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