Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of In re: News item published in Pragativadi dated 04.06.2022 titled “Huge Explosion at Chemical Company in Gujarat’s Vadodara” dated 05/07/2022.

Proceedings have been initiated in this matter in the light of media report to the effect that there was an explosion in Deepak Nitrite factory in Vadodara, Gujarat resulting in injuries to seven workers on account of inhaling the smoke and shifting of 700 people living in the area.

The Gujarat Pollution Control Board informed the court that closure order was imposed on the unit and compensation levied of Rs. 1 crore. The closure order was revoked, June 30, 2022 to the extent of permitting operations to the extent of 50%. Compensation has been deposited.

The industrial unit in its response, June 27, 2022 mentioned that safety managements were in place.

It was necessary for the state administration to maintain vigilance in the interest of safety of the workers and inhabitants against potential harm on account of unscientific working of chemical and other industries, having potential for such incidents. Also, regular safety audits need to be conducted, apart from ensuring organizing of mock drills and implementation of ‘on-site’ and ‘off-site’ emergency plans, as per laid down statutory environmental norms as observed earlier, the NGT order, July 5, 2022 said.