Punjab officials rebut Pak body claim on smog

CHANDIGARH: Punjab chief secretary KR Lakhanpal has termed as preposterous the finding of the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) that smog on the Pakistan side bordering Punjab was being caused by smoke emitted by thermal plants in the state.

Lakhanpal said the thermal plant units in Bathinda were located almost 100 kms away from the international border and there was absolutely no question of coal smoke reaching Pakistan and causing any atmospheric disturbances.

Chairman of the Punjab State Electricity Board, YS Ratra, said three of the four units of thermal plant were functioning in accordance with the pollution yardsticks laid down by the Centre.

“All necessary precautions are being taken to ensure that the smoke emitted by the plants do not cause any pollution problems in the state, leave aside Pakistan,” Ratra added.