Work on project to use industrial waste for power generation is in progress and likely to be completed soon, Sindh Minister for Environment and Alternative Energy, Shaikh Mohammad Afzal informed business community. Speaking at a meeting of Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (Kati) on Tuesday, he was of the view that completion and success of the project will be a big help to overcome power crises in the province.
Replying to a question, the minister informed ban on manufacturing polyethylene bags of less then 30 micron has not been lifted. Government is also making some changes in law to implement the ban successfully, he added. He further said that the department has initiated action against five sugar mills in the province on violation of environment laws. Their cases have been referred to tribunal for further action, he added.
The minister recalled that the former provincial minister for environment Askari Taqvi had initiated action against 100 industrial units for violation of environment laws. However, on political pressure these units were given time for compliance with the laws. These units have so for not fulfilled their obligations, he added.
He warned the industrials and smoke emitting vehicle owners that the government is going to more intensify ongoing operation against industries and smoke emitting vehicles violating environment laws. Expressing concern over burning of industrial and hospital waste, the minister said burning of waste creates big health problems and it is dangerous for life.
He warned that cases against those who will be found involved in creating environment hazard would be referred to tribunal for action as per law. He noted that persons dumping huge quantity of sold waste at Malir River and Jam Saddiq Bridge taking advantage of darkness, which is a health threat for peoples living in surrounding area. Action has been initiated against vehicles used for dumping waste. In spite of action dumping of waste is still going on, he admitted. Replying to a question, the minister said that people are freely violating environment laws not only in big cities but all over the province.