NONGPOH: RM Kurbah, Deputy Commissioner, Ri Bhoi, in a notice, has informed that it has been made mandatory for all the dealers of lead-acid batteries or its components thereof to get themselves registered with the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) and further file half-yearly return of the sale/purchase of new/old lead-acid battery latest by March 31 and November 30 every year.
Non-compliance to the provision of the Batteries (Management of Handling) Rules, 2001 and in amendment 2010 shall lead to prosecution of the said firm/proprietor as per provisions of Section 15 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, which is punishable with imprisonment for the term which may extend to five years with fine which may extend to Rs 1 lakh, or both.
In case of failure or if contravention continues, an additional fine of up to Rs 5000 will be levied for every day. The DC further asked all concerned to get them registered under the rules within 30 days from the date of publication of the notice. The details and application forms can be obtained from the office of the MSPCB, Arden Lumpyngngad, Shillong, on any working day during office hours or can be downloaded from the board’s website www.megspcb.gov.in.
