Steel Meets Seal—TSPCB Forfeits Vibhor’s Bank Guarantee Over Eco Lapse

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Vibhor Steel Tubes Ltd., one of the top ERW steel pipe and tube-making companies, is facing regulatory heat after the Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB) moved to forfeit a ₹200,000 bank guarantee. The fine is for non-adherence to environmental standards at the Mahbubnagar-based Unit 2 of the company.

According to filings and regulatory reports, the forfeiture relates to Vibhor Steel's handling of hazardous waste and emission management that apparently failed to meet requirements under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016. The TSPCB had issued show-cause notices and inspections earlier before deciding to invoke the guarantee.

Key Developments

Penalty Value: ₹200,000 bank guarantee to be forfeited by TSPCB.
Location: Vibhor Steel Tubes Unit 2, Mahbubnagar, Telangana.
Reason: Alleged non-compliance with pollution control and hazardous waste management guidelines.
Regulatory Action: Based on inspections and environmental audit reports submitted to the board.

What's Next?

While the amount forfeited is minimal, the action reflects increasing regulatory pressure on industrial pollution in Telangana. Vibhor Steel may be required to submit a corrective action plan and reapply for environmental clearances or permits under the Water and Air Acts.

The company, which recently commenced commercial production at its Odisha Unit III, has not, so far, made any public statement regarding the forfeiture.

Sources:P Telangana Pollution Control Board – Official Website, Screener, Vibhor Steel Tubes Ltd, SEBI, Form HWM Application – Telangana State Portal