CPCB identifies 30 industries to increase production of medical oxygen

‘Efforts have begun to modify nitrogen plants for the production of medical oxygen’

To tackle the COVID-19 situation in the country, the CPCB has identified about 30 industries whose nitrogen plants will be modified for the production of medical oxygen. In a statement, the Environment Ministry on Saturday said efforts were underway to augment availability of oxygen for medical purposes, as the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) with the help of State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs), has identified potential industries where existing nitrogen generation plants may be spared for production of oxygen. "Consultation have been held with potential industrial units and experts," it said. It said the central government had asked the CPCB, which has comprehensive database of industrial units, to identify the industries having spare nitrogen plants and explore the feasibility of converting existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen. "About 30 industries have been identified, and efforts have begun to modify nitrogen plants for the production of medical oxygen. Some of these plants can be shifted to nearby hospitals for supplying oxygen and some plants, where it is not feasible to shift them, can produce oxygen on-site," it said.