GPCB Enforces Updated Industrial Siting Criteria to Protect Environment and Public Health

Introduction

The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) has reaffirmed and implemented updated siting criteria for industries through an official circular dated 5 June 2025. These siting norms—referenced under GPPB/Proposed Siting Norms–2021—serve as the foundation for regulating the placement of industrial units across Gujarat. The guidelines emphasize pollution control, public health protection, and conservation of natural and heritage areas. Industrial Siting Criteria Gujarat must strictly comply with land use zoning, pollution category-based distancing, and ecological preservation protocols, especially when located near residential zones, water bodies, or sensitive landmarks.

Key Highlights of the Siting Norms Circular

✅ Reference to Past Notifications

The circular cites nine prior GPCB notifications and orders related to industrial siting and environmental approvals. It confirms that earlier siting decisions—based on these references—have been implemented properly and projects have complied with environmental permissions and land use criteria.

Minimum Distance Requirements for Industrial Categories

Land Use Type / Feature	Red Category	Orange Category	Green Category
Residential areas / schools / colleges	500 meters	200 meters	100 meters
Rivers, lakes, reservoirs	500 meters	500 meters	500 meters
Industrial wastewater discharging units	50 meters	50 meters	50 meters
Non-wastewater generating units	30 meters	30 meters	30 meters
Natural drain crossing unit	12 meters or drain width (greater) – Maintain natural flow
Natural drain passing through unit	12 meters both sides or drain width (greater) – Maintain natural flow

➡️ Additional buffer distances apply for:

Roads, railways, canals
Cultural monuments, temples, heritage structures
National parks, eco-sensitive zones, and CRZ areas
(as per relevant central or state department notifications)

Zoning and Land Use Compliance

Industrial activities must only occur in permissible use zones, such as industrial or commercial areas.
Zones must be verified as per urban development plans, environmental zoning maps, and master plans.

Environmental Safeguards and Industrial Obligations

Pollution Prevention:
Industries must not cause environmental degradation. Compliance with waste management, emission control, and Environmental Management System (EMS) protocols is mandatory.
Emission & Waste Control:
Units must meet specific discharge norms. Hazardous waste handling must follow CPCB and GPCB guidelines.
Use of Green Fuels:
Cleaner fuels such as “Blue boiler fuel” are preferred. All fuels must be pre-approved by relevant authorities.
Hazardous Waste Storage:
Hazardous materials must be stored using approved warehousing protocols to avoid leaks or environmental hazards.
Service Sector Units:
Utility providers (water, power, logistics, etc.) must also adhere to environmental norms as per the circular.
Heritage and Ecological Preservation:
No industrial activity shall damage or interfere with cultural monuments, forests, water bodies, or CRZs.

Implementation and Monitoring

Any deviation from the siting criteria is subject to inspection, enforcement, and legal action.
New project proposals must comply with the updated criteria and secure approvals from competent authorities.
Ongoing compliance will be reviewed through monitoring and third-party audits if needed.

Conclusion: Industrial Siting Criteria Gujarat

This GPCB circular consolidates and enforces siting norms to protect human health, water resources, heritage structures, and ecosystems from industrial pollution. Industries must plan and operate with strict regard to zoning laws, distance buffers, and environmental permissions. All stakeholders—planners, consultants, developers, and operators—must integrate these criteria at the design stage to ensure hassle-free approval and long-term environmental sustainability.

Download: Industrial Siting Criteria Gujarat Enforced by GPCB 2025