HUBLI: The Karnataka Pollution Control Board, Dharwad, has finally woken up to the growing menace of sound and air pollution in Dharwad district. It has launched a special awareness drive to check pollution levels in the twin cities. The campaign is aimed at creating awareness among people on the ill-effects of air and noise pollution due to bursting of crackers and honking.
As a first step, the board has started conducting programmes in schools and colleges to highlight the adverse effects of pollution on the eco-system. It recently conducted a campaign titled SDM-Utsav at the SDM Dental College on the need to reduce air and noise pollution.
SDM Dental College principal Srinath Thakur said that Board had written a letter to the college requesting them not to burst crackers in the college during 'SDM-Utsav', which was held recently. The college followed suit and contributed its bit to environment protection.
This apart, the Board is organizing various talks and programmes to create awareness at schools and colleges of Dharwad district. The Board has selected 550 schools in Dharwad district for "Parisara Mitra Shale," a state programme, in which higher primary and high school students will participate. Two teachers and headmaster from each school have been trained as part of the programme.
Under this, students will be sensitized on the harmful impact of air and noise pollution, keeping school and premises clean, making vermi-compost from waste food and water and other eco-friendly measures.
Vijayakumar Kadakbhavi, district environment officer told TOI that as per Pollution Control Board norms, noise should not exceed 55 decibels in residential areas and 65 decibels in commercial areas in the city. "But it is very unfortunate that norms are being violated in the twin cities every day. This should be brought under check," he said.
