The Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) has taken strict action against Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) plants that were violating rules. A total of 10 RMC plants have been sealed, while 40 more are under review for possible closure. These plants were found to be operating in residential areas, which is against environmental and zoning regulations.The RMC plants in areas such as Godhavi, Thol, Shela, Jaspur, and Telav were found to be breaking rules under the Comprehensive General Development Control Regulations (CGDCR). These rules ensure that industrial activities do not affect residential neighbourhoods. However, many of these RMC units were set up too close to homes, causing air pollution, noise disturbances, and damage to local roads.
AUDA had previously warned these plants multiple times. Notices were sent, instructing them to follow environmental guidelines or face closure. Despite these warnings, several plants continued to operate without making the required changes. As a result, AUDA sealed 10 plants and issued further notices to 40 others, which may face similar action soon.
The presence of RMC plants in residential areas has caused significant issues for local people. These plants generate a lot of dust, which lowers air quality and increases respiratory problems among residents. Additionally, heavy trucks transporting concrete from these plants have damaged roads and created traffic congestion.One of the major concerns is the failure of these plants to control dust and pollution. According to reports, many units did not use water sprinklers to reduce airborne dust, nor did they install green nets to limit environmental damage. The lack of proper waste management has also led to concrete spills on roads, making it difficult for pedestrians and vehicles to pass safely.
AUDA has now decided to create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for RMC plants in Ahmedabad. This SOP will define the rules and regulations for setting up and running such units. It will also include clear guidelines for obtaining permissions and No Objection Certificates (NOCs). These steps aim to ensure that new plants meet environmental and zoning standards before they begin operations.Officials have stated that RMC plants should only be located in agricultural, industrial, or logistic zones with proper approvals. The new SOP will make it easier to enforce these rules and prevent similar issues in the future. The upcoming AUDA board meeting is expected to finalise these regulations, ensuring that both businesses and residents are protected.For the 40 RMC plants that have received notices, the future remains uncertain. If they fail to comply with regulations, AUDA may take further action, including sealing their operations. Meanwhile, affected residents are hoping for stricter implementation of environmental laws to improve air quality and reduce the negative impact of these industrial units.
The crackdown on illegal RMC plants highlights the growing need for planned urban development. As Ahmedabad expands, authorities must ensure that industries follow rules to prevent harm to the environment and local communities. With new regulations in place, the city aims to strike a balance between development and sustainability.