PANAJI
For the first time, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) is planning to carry out a detailed surveillance audit of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state to ensure that industries continue to follow environmental rules, especially those under the Air and Water Pollution Acts.
To make it easier for businesses to operate and to further support the MSME sector, the Board is also considering issuing uniform Consent to Operate and Consent to Establish under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. An auto-renewal system is also being planned.
The proposals are being reviewed by Board Chairman Levinson Martins. The plan includes involving Goa University or any nationally recognised institute to carry out third-party inspections of MSMEs before the final consents are granted.
According to sources, the GSPCB’s move follows directions from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). The Ministry has asked the state to introduce reforms that reduce government restrictions and improve the ease of doing business. The aim is to create a more efficient regulatory system and simplify business processes. “The Ministry had directed the state to introduce measures such as single-window clearances, fewer inspections, and longer validity for consents. Based on these directions, the Board has proposed certain milestones,” sources said.
Along with the surveillance audits and uniform consents, the Board also plans to introduce a graded fee structure for granting consents, allow MSMEs to self-certify for approvals, and use third-party inspections. “The Board has already prepared an action plan to achieve these goals. The plan will be implemented after a detailed review, taking into account the financial impact and the Board’s regulatory responsibilities,” the proposal states.
The Board also plans to partner with institutions such as Goa University, Goa Engineering College (Farmagudi), the National Institute of Technology, the Indian Institute of Technology, and other engineering colleges for third-party empanelment.
