Industrialists will no longer be able to set up new factories or increase production inside the Taj Trapezium Zone in Firozobad. The directive has been issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forest to the district administration. According to administrative officials, the glass and bangle factories in Firozabad will have to roll back to their 1996 production levels, in accordance with the Supreme Court's order delivered in the same year. The new policy of not increasing production capacity of any factory, gas-based or otherwise, will be implemented in the area in order to protect the nearby Taj Mahal from environmental pollution. The ministry has also stated that the existing factories cannot alter their set up or change their location without seeking the permission of TTZ authorities. The local body will also have to approve before such units can move out. The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board has been asked to submit a report pertaining to the number of factory units in the area, and their production capacity to the TZZ chairperson. The new directive has caused resentment among the industrialists. Rajkumar Mittal, president of Indian Industries Association and UP Glass Manufacturing Syndicate said: "The government's order is anti-progress and will damage the bangle industry of Firozabad. This sort of ban will also hamper job opportunities as many people are working in factories at present."
