Odisha’s VIMSAR Fined Rs 11.22 Lakh For Violation Of Biomedical Waste Management Rules

Bhubaneswar: A fine of Rs 11.22 lakh has been slapped on Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, for violating standards and rules relating to biomedical waste management notified under Environment Protection Act, 1986.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) imposed the fine after the hospital failed to comply with its directions.

The board had inspected the common biomedical waste treatment facility (CBTWF) operated by VIMSAR on August 2, 2023, and found that the secondary combustion chamber of the incinerator was not upgraded as required under the Biomedical Waste Management Rules, 2016. A showcause under Section 5 of the Act was then issued to the hospital on April 5 this year for non-compliance.

In its reply submitted on May 1, VIMSAR requested for two weeks to address the issues completely. It was asked by the CPCB on May 29 to submit a time-bound action plan and action taken report with respect to all the board’s directions along with supporting documents and photographs within 15 days. However, the board did not get any response, the TOI reported.