J&K Budget Session 2026: Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary Confirms Strict Pollution Monitoring at Udhampur Industrial Estate

JAMMU, MARCH 31: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary informed the Legislative Assembly today that four industrial units classified under the “Red Category” are currently operational within the Battal Ballian Industrial Estate in Udhampur.

Replying to a Calling Attention Notice moved by Legislator R S Pathania, the Deputy Chief Minister detailed that these units occupy 51.7 kanals of land and provide direct employment to 172 individuals.

He reassured the House that all active units have installed the mandatory pollution control devices and that their emissions remain well within the safety limits prescribed by the government. The Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JK PCC) maintains a vigilant presence through its Divisional Officer in Udhampur to ensure continuous compliance with environmental standards.

The Deputy Chief Minister further emphasized that no industrial unit, whether on estate or private land, is permitted to function without a valid ‘Consent to Operate’ certificate, which is issued only after a rigorous evaluation of environmental norms and guidelines.

Highlighting the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward environmental violations, he revealed that a closure order has already been issued by the Member Secretary of the JK PCC for one specific Red Category unit, identified as M/s Super Refineries.

This move underscores the administration’s commitment to balancing industrial growth with ecological preservation, ensuring that economic activities do not compromise the health and safety of the local population.