Himachal Pradesh Unveils Advanced Pollution Control Laboratory in Dharamshala
Inauguration of the New Regional Laboratory
Constructed at a cost of Rs 3.5 crore, the facility aims to boost environmental monitoring in the state.
DHARAMSHALA:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has officially opened the newly established Regional Laboratory of the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) located at Dari, near Dharamshala. This state-of-the-art facility, built for Rs 3.5 crore, is anticipated to greatly improve the state's environmental monitoring and analytical capabilities.
The laboratory complex covers an area of 938.44 square meters, consisting of a basement, ground floor, first floor, and a top floor, with each level spanning 234.61 square meters. The basement is designated for parking and is equipped with essential utilities such as power and water supply, facilitating the operation of a fully functional advanced analytical laboratory.
Engineered to adhere to high technical standards, the facility includes specialized sections for testing water and wastewater, monitoring ambient air quality, and conducting microbiological analyses, allowing for a thorough evaluation of environmental factors.
Additionally, the complex features a sample storage room, areas for chemical and glassware storage, a record section, a meeting hall, and sufficient seating for staff, fostering an organized and efficient working environment.
During the inauguration, the Chief Minister emphasized that the government had allocated adequate budgetary support to ensure the project met the necessary standards for NABL accreditation.
“This new laboratory, with its modern infrastructure, enhanced analytical capabilities, and improved safety measures, will significantly bolster the technical proficiency, operational efficiency, and service delivery of the State Pollution Control Board,” he remarked.
The inauguration event was attended by various dignitaries, including Ayush Minister Yadvinder Goma, HP State Planning Board Vice-Chairman Bhawani Singh Pathania, MLAs Sanjay Awasthy, Harish Janartha, and Suresh Kumar, Congress leader Devender Jaggi, APMC Kangra Chairman Nishu Mongra, Dharamshala Mayor Neenu Sharma, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, and HPSPCB Member Secretary Praveen Gupta.