Hyderabad:
The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board has ordered closure of 12 manufacturing units of different pharma companies, including Aurobindo Pharma, around the city for allegedly violating pollution norms.
According to a Board's release, the notices have been issued to the facilities to stop all industrial activities with effect from July 23 to complete the on-going batches.
"The AP Pollution Control Board has reviewed certain Bulk Drug industries before the Boards Task Force committee meeting on July 9, 2012.
"After detailed discussions, the Board is of the firm opinion that certain industries are violating the orders of Supreme Court of India, Ban Notification issued by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, Appellate Authority order and directions issued by the Board from time to time," the release said.
The facilities named in the order include two facilities of Aurobindo Pharma, four facilities of Hetero Labs, one each of Cirex Pharmaceuticals, Covalent Laboratories, Divis Pharmaceuticals, Sri Krishna Pharmaceuticals and Innogent Laboratories and SMS Pharma.
"Accordingly, the Board vide orders dated July 10, 2012 issued closure orders to the 12 number of Bulk Drug industries located in Medak and Rangareddy District under Water and Air Acts in the interest of protecting public health and environment.
"These industries are also directed to stop all industrial activities with effect from July 23, 2012 to facilitate completion of all on-going batches, it added.
Aurobindo Pharma officials are not available for comment.