Ahmedabad: The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) has ordered the closure of 16 industrial units in Ahmedabad and Surat over the past four months to combat deteriorating winter air quality. With Ahmedabad set to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, authorities have issued closure notices as part of a rigorous push to bring the air quality index (AQI) under control.GPCB is taking a zero-tolerance approach to emissions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, to meet National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) standards.According to senior GPCB officials, nine closure notices were issued in Ahmedabad and seven in Surat during this period, reflecting intensified scrutiny of industrial emissions during winter months when meteorological conditions can worsen particulate pollution. It has also imposed environment damage compensation (EDC) penalty of total Rs 75 lakh on these units. The action forms part of a broader compliance drive aimed at ensuring that industries meet ambient air quality standards and operate mandated pollution control systems effectively.GPCB officials said it remains committed to upholding ambient air quality norms and has implemented a comprehensive Winter Action Plan that was prepared ahead of the season and is currently in force. The plan focuses on identifying and controlling key sources of emissions, improving monitoring, and strengthening operational practices across industrial clusters.Core elements of the Winter Action Plan include an inventory of solid fuel-based utilities and other potential pollution sources, calibration of Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (CEMS), and training programmes for boiler operators. The plan also calls for enhanced air quality monitoring, identification of pollution hotspots with targeted control measures, and environmental clinics to sensitize industries on compliance and best practices.In Narol industrial area of Ahmedabad, an anti-smog gun has been deployed by the local industrial association to help control particulate matter levels, including PM10 and PM2.5. GPCB’s winter measures also emphasize maintenance of air pollution control devices, including replacement of bags in bag filters and ensuring functional components such as solenoid valves, rotary valves and pressure-difference gauges.Industries have been advised to maintain an optimum air-to-fuel ratio to ensure complete combustion and reduce emissions. A Gujarat Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation Ltd (GITCO) study of Narol textile units’ boilers has also been shared with individual units to guide corrective actions.
