Pune: PMC Issues Stop-Work Notices To 125 Construction Sites; Faces Criticism Over Lack Of Follow-Up
Pune, 27th December 2024: The Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) Building Department has come under scrutiny for its lack of follow-up after issuing stop-work notices to 125 construction projects for failing to comply with Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) regulations. Despite the directive, no developer has responded to the notices, and the department has not verified whether the flagged projects have halted work or implemented corrective measures.
In a two-day crackdown, the PMC issued stop-work notices to construction projects across multiple city areas, including Kothrud, Baner, Balewadi, Warje Malwadi, Karvenagar, Dhayari, Narhe, Katraj, Ambegaon, Hadapsar, Kondhwa, Mundhwa, Kharadi, Dhanori, Yerwada, Vishrantwadi, Bopodi and Erandwana areas. The action was taken after it was observed that many construction activities were violating MPCB guidelines, leading to increased air pollution and health hazards for residents.
Large-scale construction work, along with metro development on Ganeshkhind Road, has contributed to significant dust pollution in the city. The lack of dust suppression measures, such as water sprinkling or covering construction materials, has worsened air quality, posing health risks like respiratory, cardiovascular, and eye-related diseases.
The PMC’s Building Department mandated adherence to MPCB rules to mitigate these issues but has been criticized for its lack of diligence after issuing the notices. There has been no investigation into whether the developers have complied or whether construction has been halted at the identified sites.
Citizens and PMC insiders have voiced concerns over the department’s inaction, calling it a superficial initiative with no real impact. The PMC’s approach has sparked discussions about the need for stricter monitoring and enforcement to address the growing issue of air pollution in Pune. Without accountability, critics fear the problem will persist, leaving residents to bear the health and environmental consequences.
