Jan 5, 2013

Do not permit permissible pollution

In many industrial areas, the surrounding atmosphere is filled with smell/odor of chemicals.  The residents in the area bear this and only when accidents take place, these residents and media complain about presence of chemicals, smell, health problems, etc. Otherwise, there will not be much coverage about the problems. 
Though, these pollutants are present below the AAQ limits, still they are a nuisance to the residents. Workmen may be exposed to pollutants below TLV because these limits are for occupational workers, and they are working knowingly that they have to work with chemicals. But, why the residents should bear the brunt even to a minor extent. 
Plants should be designed for effective 100% scrubbing and neutralization of all pollutants and discharge stacks are designed for release at highest level wherein the dispersion does not lead to even nuisance pollution. If this is not done, in the long run, industries may face the ire from local residents, NGOs, media, etc leading to restrictions/closure of their plants. 
In addition, industries should spend a part of their profits towards CSR activities to improve the life of local residents by providing facilities for drinking water, roads, schools, community centers, etc and educate them for leading a healthy life.