Pune: PMC Halts 105 Construction Projects for Violating Pollution Control Norms, Builders Under Pressure

Pune, 14th December 2024: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has halted the work of 105 construction projects across the city for failing to comply with the rules set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The action includes projects undertaken by prominent builders and some reputed educational institutions.

Construction activity is underway in several parts of Pune, including Erandwana, Sahakarnagar, Kothrud, Bibvewadi, Baner, Balewadi, Aundh, Karvenagar, and Kharadi. However, inspections revealed widespread violations of CPCB guidelines, with many sites neglecting necessary precautions to curb pollution. Fine and ultrafine dust particles generated by these activities have significantly contributed to pollution levels in the city.

Last year, the PMC had instructed construction professionals to strictly adhere to CPCB regulations to mitigate pollution caused by construction activities. These rules include measures such as installing green netting of a specified height around construction sites, keeping the netting wet, and spraying water during the unloading and loading of materials. Despite repeated warnings, PMC officials found that many projects continued to flout these guidelines.

In response, the PMC’s Construction Department took decisive action, halting 91 projects on the first day and an additional 14 on the second. Furthermore, show cause notices have been issued to 67 projects in Zone 5, requiring them to provide explanations for non-compliance.

“The Pollution Control Board regulations are mandatory for all construction activities,” stated PMC Superintending Engineer Shridhar Yevlekar. “Work will resume only after projects comply with the environmental norms and undergo inspection to ensure adherence.”

This crackdown has sent shockwaves through Pune’s construction sector. Reports suggest that some builders and developers are attempting to pressure the PMC to reverse the decision. However, the corporation remains firm in its commitment to enforcing pollution control measures to safeguard public health and the environment.