MUKONO. The environment watchdog, National Environment Management Authority(Nema) has indefinitely closed Galaxy Kena Universal Ltd ( Aluminium and stainless manufacturing plant) in Namanve Industrial Park over gross air pollution emissions .
Two company directors –Mr Nilux Bhatt and Nimita Bhatt have also been arrested during the crackdown, according to a statement issued by Nema head of communication Naomi Karekaho.
The duo reportedly disregarded a stop notice issued by Nema in December 2024 and continued operating the factory in total defiance .
“Continuous engagement and warnings by Nema have all been ignored leaving Nema with no option ,but to invoke the law in protection of lives and property of people around the facility ,” she said .
Air pollution measurements recorded at most sections of the factory showed high levels of particulate matter PM2.5 (2000g/m3 PM10 ( 2000g/m3 ) ,and total volatile organic compounds ( 999g/m30 .
“ These pollutants contribute to smog formation ,acid rain , and climate change –damaging vegetation ,soils and water bodies . Human exposure leads to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases , cancers ,neurological disorders ,and weakened immune systems . Long term exposure especially endangers children , the elderly and communities near industrial zones , while ecosystems suffer reduced diversity and soil and water contamination ,ultimately threatening productivity and sustainable development,” she added
Ms Karekaho said the arrested directors will be arraigned in court and advised all factory owners whose production processes cause emissions to strictly install pollution control chambers with advanced cleaning systems to absorb and efficiently treat fugitive and carcinogenic emissions in accordance with Section 78 of the National Environment Act Cap. 181.