Central Pollution Control Board Dust Control From Stone Crusher

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has laid down specific guidelines and standards to control dust emissions from stone crusher units, which are a significant source of particulate matter (PM10 & PM2.5). Below are the key measures and regulatory frameworks for dust control:

1. CPCB Guidelines for Stone Crushers
– Siting Criteria: Stone crushers should be located at least 500 meters away from human habitation and sensitive areas (schools, hospitals, water bodies).
– Emission Standards:
– Particulate Matter (PM) emissions should not exceed 150 µg/m³ (24-hour average) as per CPCB norms.
– Fugitive emissions must be controlled through enclosures, water sprinkling, and dust suppression systems.

2. Dust Control Measures
# (A) Primary Control Measures
– Water Sprinkling System: Regular spraying of water on raw materials, crushing zones, and conveyor belts to suppress dust.
– Enclosures & Covering: Crushers, screens, and conveyors should be fully covered to prevent fugitive dust.
– Green Belt Development: Planting trees around the unit acts as a natural dust barrier.

# (B) Secondary Control Measures
– Bag Filters/Ventilation Systems: Installation of high-efficiency bag filters to capture fine particles.
– Wet Dust Suppression Systems: Using mist cannons or fogging systems near crushing points.
– Road & Transport Management: Paved roads with water sprinklers to minimize dust from vehicle movement.

3. Legal Compliance
– Stone crushers must obtain Consent to Establish (CTE) & Consent to Operate (CTO) under the *Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981*.
– Compliance with the *Environment Protection Rules* and state-specific pollution control board norms is mandatory.

4. Monitoring & Reporting
– Regular monitoring of ambient air quality using PM10/PM2.5 samplers.
– Submission of half-yearly compliance reports to SPCB/CPCB.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance
– Heavy fines under the *Environment (Protection) Act, 1986*.
– Shutdown orders if violations persist.

Conclusion
Effective dust control in stone crushers requires a combination of engineering controls (water sprays, enclosures), administrative measures (regular monitoring), and green solutions (tree plantation). Compliance with CPCB guidelines ensures minimal