Pollution during picnicking to invite stern action; SPCB to monitor picnic sites: Odisha Minister

Odisha government issued a strong warning on Tuesday to people planning picnics during the New Year season, cautioning that any activity causing pollution will invite strict action. Forest and Environment Minister said the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) is closely monitoring picnic activities, especially at eco-tourism locations and heritage sites.

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Concern is growing over the deteriorating air quality in Bhubaneswar, where pollution levels have crossed into the ‘danger’ category. Officials have urged citizens to remain alert and act responsibly to prevent further environmental damage. Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia made it clear that pollution in the name of recreation will not be tolerated.

Pollution levels are rising across several parts of Odisha, including Angul, Balasore, Talcher, and Bhubaneswar, with air-quality index (AQI) readings remaining consistently very high. The situation in the Capital City has officially been described as particularly alarming.

To address the issue, the State government will soon hold a coordination meeting involving urban development, transport, industry, forest & environment, and other key departments. Authorities have been instructed to inspect mining areas to ensure that water sprinklers are functioning properly and standard operating procedures are being strictly followed.

Using non-biodegradable items such as plastics, throwing left-out foods at the picnic sites, and littering tourist destinations, etc., will invite stringent action, official sources stated.

“Those who are going for a picnic are being monitored by the Pollution Control Board. The anti-pollution body has issued an advisory in this regard. Picnic-goers across the State need to be conscious and accordingly discharge their duties,” the Forest Minister said.