The Danilimda Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) operated by the Ahmedabad Hand Screen Printing Association is facing imminent closure following a notice issued by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB).
The closure notice was issued after a GPCB inspection uncovered several irregularities and environmental concerns related to the CETP’s operations. During the inspection conducted on April 2 and 5, GPCB officials observed instances of wastewater ponding near the Gabansha Dargah area and an overflow of alkaline wastewater near the Somnath Mahadev Mandir road and the entrance of Hotelwala Estate. Additionally, it was noted that the chlorination and tertiary treatment systems were non-operational, raising significant concerns about the treatment of effluent discharged from the CETP.
The GPCB’s notice highlighted various issues, including the potential direct discharge indicated by a flexible line fixed over the CETP discharge line, and inconsistencies in meeting inlet and outlet norms based on the analysis of collected samples. Moreover, the daily effluent quantities were found to exceed the consented limit of 30 MLD on certain days of the month. While the GPCB refrained from immediate closure, it provided a 30-day window for the CETP to rectify the identified issues and comply with regulatory standards. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) also issued a notice to the CETP, emphasizing the importance of maintaining daily records of effluent quantity and quality at the inlet and outlet points. Failure to address the concerns and meet prescribed norms within the stipulated timeframe will result in the closure of the Danilimda CETP. This regulatory action underscores the authorities’ commitment to ensuring environmental compliance and protecting public health in the region. It also serves as a reminder of the critical role played by industrial facilities in maintaining ecological balance and adhering to pollution control measures.
