PSPCL cuts power to 85 polluting units in Ludhiana

Ludhiana has seen a significant crackdown on polluting industries. Over the past three months, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has cut power to 85 units in the city. This includes 70 dairies and 15 dyeing industries. Many of these businesses have been identified as major contributors to the pollution of Buddha Nullah, a local water body. Most disconnections have occurred in the focal point division, a key industrial area. This increase in action follows a visit by Rajya Sabha member Balbir Singh Seechewal, who raised concerns about pollution levels. Amrinder Singh, an official from the focal point, confirmed that many dairies on Tajpur Road near Buddha Nullah have been affected. These dairies were found to be dumping cow dung and urine into the polluted waters. The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) plays a vital role in this process. They conduct inspections and water tests to identify violators. Once a unit is found to be non-compliant, the PPCB requests PSPCL to disconnect their power. PSPCL then coordinates with local authorities to enforce these disconnections. The rise in disconnections reflects a growing problem. Previously, the PPCB sent about three to four disconnection requests each week. This number has now increased to eight to ten per week. Despite the stringent measures, many units continue to violate pollution norms. Some dairies still discharge untreated waste, and certain industries operate without proper waste treatment systems, further polluting Buddha Nullah.