MPCB Cracks Down on 20 RMC Plants in Pune and PCMC Over Pollution Violations
Pune, 27th March 2025: The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has taken stringent action against 20 ready-mix concrete (RMC) plants operating in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad for failing to comply with environmental regulations. Of these, 18 have been ordered to halt operations, while four others have received interim orders, including penalties such as the forfeiture of bank guarantees.
The crackdown follows an MPCB survey conducted on March 11, which uncovered multiple violations related to air pollution and improper waste management at both commercial and captive RMC plants. The survey was initiated after numerous complaints from residents about dust pollution caused by these facilities.
Strict Action Against Non-Compliant RMC Plants
MPCB officials revealed that two RMC plants, which had previously received closure notices, continued operations illegally using diesel generators. In response, the board has directed power and water supply authorities to disconnect their services.
“Our priority is to ensure compliance with air pollution control norms. Despite earlier warnings, some plants continued operations without necessary safeguards, forcing us to take strict measures,” said Navnath Avtade, MPCB Sub-Regional Officer.
Widespread Violations Found in RMC Operations
During the inspection, MPCB officials found several environmental breaches at the plants, including:
Uncontrolled dust emissions from cement and concrete mixing.
Lack of air pollution control systems, such as fogging arrangements and dust collectors.
No proper storage or covering for raw materials like cement and fly ash.
Absence of internal roads to minimize dust generation.
Discharge of untreated effluents into the surroundings.
Emphasizing the importance of pollution control measures, J.S. Salunkhe, Regional Officer, MPCB, stated, “It is crucial to assess the current status of air pollution control systems and regulatory compliance at these plants. Non-compliance will not be tolerated.”
Dust Pollution in Hinjewadi Raised in Assembly
Concerns over dust pollution, particularly in Hinjewadi IT Park and other PCMC areas, were recently highlighted in the Maharashtra State Assembly. Responding to the issue, State Environment Minister Pankaja Munde informed that PCMC has deployed two mobile road washers, five fog cannon dust suppression systems, and six air purification units to curb pollution.
Impact on the Construction Industry
This large-scale action comes shortly after MPCB’s earlier crackdown on five RMC plants, where significant dust emissions were detected. While the move has been welcomed by environmentalists, some developers have expressed concerns about the potential impact on the construction sector.
A senior official from CREDAI (Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India) noted that many builders have captive RMC plants at their construction sites, which help reduce pollution caused by transporting materials. “While pollution control is necessary, a complete shutdown of RMC plants will affect ongoing construction projects and increase costs,” the official said.
MPCB has reiterated that the action is not intended to shut down the industry but to enforce environmental compliance. Developers have been urged to rectify violations at the earliest to avoid further penalties.
