Punjab Government Recommends Permanent Closure of Zira Distillery
The Punjab government has submitted an affidavit before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) recommending the permanent shutdown of a distillery and ethanol plant operated by Malbros Industries at Mansurwala village in Zira. The closure is sought due to severe pollution and repeated violations of environmental regulations.
Environmental Violations and Protests
The affidavit, filed on November 2 by Manish Kumar, Special Secretary of Science, Technology & Environment representing the AAP government, labeled the distillery as a “rogue” unit with a persistent record of breaking environmental laws. This facility has faced over three years of ongoing protests from farmers concerned about its impact on the environment.
“It is a landmark moment...for the first time, the government has acknowledged in no uncertain words that any industry which is causing pollution must be permanently shut down.” — Jaskirat Singh, Public Action Committee (PAC) member
Government's Position and Legal Stance
The government’s admission aligns with the long-standing concerns expressed by civic groups such as the Sanjha Morcha and PAC. The affidavit clearly states that the plant operators should be barred from using the facility or premises for ethanol production or any other activities due to their history of environmental non-compliance.
“The record of this case reveals that the proponent industry has a history of flouting environmental norms over extended period, including hoodwinking the consultation or enforcement mechanisms.” — Punjabi government affidavit
Summary
This move by the Punjab government represents a strong stance against industrial pollution, emphasizing permanent closure for violations, and supporting farmers’ environmental concerns.
Author’s summary: Punjab’s government officially calls for the permanent closure of a polluting distillery in Zira, marking a decisive step to enforce environmental laws and protect farmers’ interests.
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