For every two deaths due to silicosis in the country from 2012 to 2014, more than one is from Godhra in Gujarat, Rajya Sabha was informed today.
As per the data, 24 workers in Godhra have died due to silicosis in quartz crushing industries during 2012-2014 out of a total 42 deaths across the country during the same period.
"The Central Pollution Control Board has inspected 16 operational quartz crushing industries in Godhra and found that the industries are not complying with the prescribed norms," Environment Minister Anil Dave said in a written reply.
Following this, CPCB has issued directions to the Gujarat State Pollution Control Board to implement the recommendations of the inspection report.
In May, the Supreme Court passed an order asking the Gujarat government to pay compensation of Rs 3 lakh within a month to families of deceased migrant workers who died of silicosis, which they had contracted due to working in the unregulated quartz crushing factories of Godhra and Balasinor.
According to estimates, there are over 3 million workers exposed to silica dust in India.
