In a concerted effort to combat air pollution and uphold environmental norms, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has initiated stringent action against ready-mix concrete plants across the district.
MPCB has served closure notices to seven such plants deemed non-compliant with air pollution regulations, while an additional eight face legal scrutiny or proposed directives for similar violations. The enforcement drive, initiated in early March, has targeted areas including Tathawade, Nande, and Marunji, where the identified plants are located. Notably, six plants in Marunji have been promptly shuttered, with another in Nande village receiving a formal closure notice. Further, MPCB has dispatched proposed directives or legal notices to seven plants in Marunji and one in Hinjewadi, seeking clarification on the observed violations.
This regulatory crackdown follows a deluge of complaints from residents residing in the vicinity of these plants, citing deteriorating air quality and associated respiratory health concerns. The surge in grievances underscores the pressing need for robust enforcement measures to safeguard public health and mitigate environmental degradation. By swiftly addressing these non-compliance issues, MPCB reaffirms its commitment to enforcing stringent environmental regulations and holding industrial entities accountable for their operational impacts. The closure notices and legal actions signal a proactive stance towards curbing pollution and promoting sustainable development practices in line with state mandates.
Furthermore, MPCB’s intervention underscores the imperative of fostering a harmonious balance between industrial growth and environmental preservation. As stakeholders navigate the evolving regulatory landscape, adherence to prescribed norms and emission standards assumes paramount importance in ensuring a conducive environment for both economic progress and public well-being. Moving forward, MPCB remains vigilant in monitoring compliance levels and implementing corrective measures where necessary, underscoring its pivotal role as a custodian of environmental integrity. Through collaborative efforts with industry stakeholders and proactive enforcement strategies, MPCB endeavours to foster a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for Maharashtra and its residents.
According to officials from the board, the plants violated multiple norms, mainly regarding barricading of minimum 5ft to maximum 20 ft above free fall air emission area, with appropriate material as well as absence of water sprinkling or chemical dust stabilising agent inside the premises of ready-mix concrete plants. VV Killedar, sub-regional officer, MPCB, said, “The drive is ongoing, and we have looked at all aspects of violations, including conveyor belts, carrying concrete, emitting dust at some plants. The survey was carried out by three teams in several areas of the district.”
“We will ensure that these plants do not operate without meeting the required conditions. We have given them a period of seven days to respond. Many residents have complained to us repeatedly about the worsening air quality in areas where these plants are situated,” said Ravi Andhale, regional officer, MPCB. “Eight plants have been issued proposed directions,” said Andhale. Recently, the board had issued closure notices to four stone crushing units, show cause notices to six units, and proposed directions to eight units.
