Cement units using pet coke in Jammu and Kashmir will have to install advanced pollution control systems, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary said.
The government is taking steps to reduce pollution from industrial units, particularly those using petroleum coke, commonly known as pet coke, as fuel. The Deputy Chief Minister said stricter pollution-control measures would be required to minimise the impact of industrial emissions on the environment and surrounding communities.
He said industries using pet coke would need to adopt modern pollution-control technology and comply with the prescribed environmental standards. The focus, he said, was on ensuring that industrial activity continues while keeping pollution levels under control.
The government is also expected to strengthen monitoring of industrial units to ensure that pollution-control equipment is properly installed and maintained. Units failing to meet the required standards could face action under the applicable environmental regulations.
Pet coke is widely used as an industrial fuel because of its high energy content, but its combustion can release pollutants if adequate emission-control systems are not in place. The proposed measures are aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality in areas surrounding industrial units.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the government would continue to balance industrial development with environmental protection and would work towards ensuring that industries follow the required pollution-control norms.
