Aerolite use unchecked in granite units

Aerolite, an insulation product made from pure spun glass, is used as a gap-filling wood adhesive that’s water and heat resistant.

Owners of granite industries, over the last five years, have engaged in rampant and surreptitious use of aerolite, after obtaining permits to use “water-based” cutting machines.

The inaction of the Pollution Control Board only shows their collusion with vested interests, local residents say.

The delay in implementing the Pollution Control Board order that prohibits use of aerolite in as many as 20 cutting and polishing units has led to suspicion about the Board’s intention.

Unscientific disposal

During a spot inspection of units in the district, officers from the Board’s head office, on June 16, ascertained the illegal use of aerolite. They also confirmed the unscientific disposal of effluents from the units.

“The Pollution Control Board, instead of taking stringent action against the owners of the erring granite units, is safeguarding their interests,” alleged  Nagaraj Hongal, general secretary, Ilkal Janajagruthi Vedike.

Effluents from the units, which use aerolite, cause agricultural lands to go barren. Also,  residents in the vicinity of the units are complaining of breathing disorders, said Annaji Rao, vice president, All-india Corruption Prevention Committee, Bagalkot zilla unit.

Urging immediate action against Ilkal, Thondihala, Hireuppanala and Balakundi granite polishing and cutting units, the people have submitted a memorandum to the Pollution Control Board.

They have also lodged a complaint with the Lokayukta.

Punitive action

Vijayakumar Kadakabavi, District Environment Pollution Control officer, said: “We have already warned granite units against using aerolite. Also, the Hescom has been directed to disconnect power supply to units that continue to use aerolite.”

More profits

While a water-based granite cutting machine can cut only a granite slab measuring10 ft X 3 ft, aerolite-based machines can cut granite measuring up to 10 ft by 4.5 to 5 ft.
Hence, the widespread use of aerolite in granite cutting and polishing units.