MPCB Cracks Down on 12 RMC Plants in Pune, PCMC Over Environmental Violations

Report by The Newsage Pune.

Shut Down of 12 RMC Plants Ordered by MPCB Due to Excessive Pollution

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has ordered the shutdown of 12 Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) plants in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad due to serious environmental violations. On March 28, the board issued stop-work orders, citing excessive dust pollution, lack of effluent treatment, and improper waste disposal.

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board took immediate action and demanded the closure of 12 RMC plants, after receiving complaints from residents regarding the sudden increase in pollution levels. Non-compliance was observed after investigation and measures have been implemented to regulate construction activities and curb the pollution.

Additionally, four plants face forfeiture of their bank guarantees, while power and water supply to two non-compliant plants will be disconnected. The action follows a survey initiated on March 11 after residents complained about rising air pollution from RMC plants.

Inspection revealed unregulated dust emissions, poor raw material storage and the absence of dust suppression systems. Many plants also lacked environmental clearances and wastewater recycling mechanisms. With construction activities contributing to worsening air quality, MPCB officials emphasized the need for strict enforcement of pollution control measures to curb environmental damage in urban areas.