Pune’s Air Pollution Worsens Due to RMC Plants; MPCB Issues Notice to Wakad-Based Project
Wakad, 15th March 2025: Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad are witnessing a surge in air pollution due to the increasing number of Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) plants in the region. In response, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has launched a crackdown on such pollution-causing projects. The board has issued a notice to the RMC plant operated by Vilas Javadekar Infinity Developers in Wakad, granting them seven days to respond.
The Wakad area has seen a significant rise in air pollution, largely due to the ongoing construction of multiple housing projects. To meet the growing demand for concrete, several RMC plants have been set up in the vicinity. Concerned about the deteriorating air quality, local residents staged a protest demanding action against these plants. Following the protest, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) had shut down four RMC plants. However, the air pollution issue persisted, prompting MPCB to intervene and take stricter action against non-compliant plants.
The RMC plant operated by Vilas Javadekar Infinity Developers was flagged after multiple complaints from housing societies in Wakad and Tathawade. Upon inspection, MPCB officials found that the plant lacked pollution control systems and had failed to adhere to the conditions set during its approval.
Key violations observed include:
– Absence of concrete internal roads
– Lack of sewage treatment facilities
– Improper disposal of wastewater within the premises
– High levels of dust pollution
– No effective dust control measures
Considering these violations, MPCB has not only issued a notice but also questioned why the plant should not be shut down. Additionally, the board has warned that if the company fails to respond within seven days, strict legal action will follow, including the disconnection of power and water supply.
In response to the notice, Vilas Javadekar Infinity Developers has claimed that they are complying with all regulations. The company has assured that a detailed response, along with supporting evidence, will be submitted to the MPCB within the stipulated timeframe.
Regional Officer of MPCB, Jagannath Salunkhe, emphasized that failure to address the violations would result in legal proceedings and stringent penalties.
