Home / Environment / Himachal Pollution Board Faces Staff Shortage Crisis
Himachal Pollution Board Faces Staff Shortage Crisis
3 Nov
Summary
- Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board has 137 vacancies.
- Only 54 scientific posts are filled against 104 sanctioned.
- All six board laboratories have achieved NABL accreditation.
The Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) is operating with a substantial staff deficit, reporting 137 vacancies out of 376 sanctioned positions as of October 1, 2026. This means 36.4% of its authorized strength remains unfilled, according to an affidavit submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
The scientific wing is particularly affected, with only 54 out of 104 scientific posts filled. Similarly, the engineering and administrative categories face shortages, with 43 personnel against 79 posts and 142 employees against 193 posts, respectively. Recruitment for 46 positions is currently underway.
Despite staffing challenges, the HPSPCB has achieved a significant milestone: all six of its laboratories have secured accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). These labs are now equipped to monitor a wide range of environmental parameters, including water, wastewater, air emissions, and solid waste, bolstering the state's environmental monitoring infrastructure.
