Andhra regulator orders Nellore factories to establish green buffer zones

The Chief of the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) has issued instructions to industrial establishments in Nellore district to create and maintain greenbelt zones within and around their facilities. The order forms part of the regulatory authority's broader environmental management framework for the district's manufacturing sector.

Greenbelts serve as natural barriers against air and noise pollution while improving ambient air quality in industrial areas. The directive is expected to bring manufacturing units into stricter compliance with environmental standards prescribed under the Air Act and other relevant pollution control regulations.

The APPCB has emphasized that industrial units must develop these green zones within a specified timeframe to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable operations. The move reflects growing regulatory focus on balancing industrial growth with environmental protection in the state's manufacturing hubs.

Industrial facilities in Nellore, a key manufacturing region in southern Andhra Pradesh, have been advised to prepare detailed greenbelt development plans for approval by the pollution control board. Non-compliance with the directive could result in regulatory action against defaulting units.