Context: National Green Tribunal (NGT) directed the Central Pollution Control Board to draft new guidelines for granting permission for [silica] mining and washing plants and the Uttar Pradesh government and Pollution Control Board to set up health-care facilities in areas with silica mines.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims- Key facts about Silicosis.
What is Silicosis?
- Silicosis is a long-term lung disease caused by inhaling large amounts of crystalline silica dust.
- Silica is a substance naturally found in certain types of stone, rock, sand and clay. Working with these materials can create a very fine dust that can be easily inhaled.
- Impact: Once inside the lungs, it causes swelling (inflammation) and gradually leads to hardened and scarred lung tissue (fibrosis). Lung tissue that is scarred in this way does not function properly.
- Treatment: There is no cure for silicosis because the lung damage can not be reversed. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Which industries are more vulnerable?
- Stone masonry and stone cutting – especially with sandstone
- Construction and demolition – as a result of exposure to concrete and paving materials
- Worktop manufacturing and fitting
- Pottery, ceramics and glass manufacturing
- Mining and quarrying
- Sand blasting
What are various challenges faced by India in this regard?
- Silicosis is a common occupational disorder seen all over India, particularly in the Central and Western States. It is an important cause of respiratory morbidity.
- Majority of silicosis cases are anticipated to be reported in smaller units and cottage industries.
- Small enterprises may also be exempt from the statutory norms outlined in the Factories Act, 1948, and the Mines Act, 1952.
- Operators do not follow occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code 2020 which require mine workers’ employers to notify threats of bodily harm to workers and workers developing specific diseases, including silicosis.
- Lack of data with the government prevents them from taking actions.
- Lack of standardised diagnostic algorithms and guidelines for silicosis certification.
- Free annual health checkups have failed to reverse Silicosis.
- Misdiagnosis also happens many times, confusing it with tuberculosis.