Pune: MPCB Cracks Down on 20 RMC Projects for Environmental Violations, Stops Production at 18

Pune, March 27, 2025: The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has taken strict action against 20 ready mix concrete (RMC) projects in the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) areas for violating environmental norms. Among these, 18 projects have been ordered to stop production, while four others face interim actions, including the forfeiture of bank guarantees.

MPCB has also directed power and water supply departments to disconnect services to two non-compliant RMC plants that continued operations illegally using diesel generators despite earlier closure notices. Navnath Avtade, MPCB sub-regional officer, confirmed the violations.

The crackdown follows a March 11 survey initiated after multiple resident complaints about air pollution from captive and commercial RMC plants. JS Salunkhe, MPCB regional officer, emphasized the need for compliance with consent norms and air pollution control systems.

The issue of dust pollution, particularly in Hinjawadi IT Park, was raised in the state assembly. Environment Minister Pankaja Munde stated that PCMC has deployed two mobile road washers, five fog cannon dust suppression systems, and air purifiers at six locations to mitigate pollution.

Earlier this month, MPCB penalized five other RMC plants for excessive dust emissions, untreated effluents, and inadequate infrastructure, including missing raw material storage covers, sprinklers, and dust collection systems.

While the action aims to enforce compliance, a Credai official warned that large-scale stop-work orders could significantly impact the construction industry. Some developers argue that on-site RMC plants reduce dust pollution by minimizing material transportation.