Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar: State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to VSS Institute of Medical Science and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, to address multiple environmental compliance violations or face strict action.
The 1,018-bed hospital was found non-compliant with waste management regulations during an SPCB inspection on Oct 23. As a result, its application for renewal of consent to operate (CTO) for 2023-24 was rejected due to these violations.
Major irregularities were discovered in the hospital's effluent and sewage waste management systems. The existing 20 kiloliters per day effluent treatment plant requires an upgrade, and the status of its construction remains unreported. Additionally, issues were identified with the sewage treatment plant at Dhipapada.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has already imposed a fine of Rs. 11.22 lakh for bio-medical waste management violations, which remains unpaid.
VIMSAR Superintendent Lal Mohan Naik said, "We have requested a waiver of the fine amount." He added that the hospital is currently treating water from laboratories, labour rooms, and operation theatres but needs to expand its treatment capacity to include washroom effluents. He assured that the hospital is preparing compliance reports and will reapply for the fine waiver once all regulations are met.