Municipal Corporation warns of stop work orders for non-compliance

The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has intensified efforts to curb air pollution in its jurisdiction. In a stringent move, the corporation has issued Show Cause notices to 39 construction sites for failing to adhere to air pollution control regulations. The officials have warned that failure to comply with these guidelines will result in immediate stop work orders.

The TMC had previously directed 297 construction sites to implement measures for dust pollution control. While 31 sites have fully complied, 151 sites faced fines totalling ₹4 lakh for minor violations. The 39 violators issued Show Cause notices are at risk of construction halts if immediate corrective measures are not undertaken.

The municipal Environment Department, under the directions of Additional Commissioner (1) Sandeep Malvi, is rigorously inspecting compliance across 297 construction sites. In a recent review meeting, attended by senior officials including Municipal Engineer Prashant Sonagra, Deputy Commissioners Padmashree Bainade and Sachin Sangle, and Chief Environment Officer Manisha Pradhan, it was emphasized that agencies like Metro and MSRDC must also take measures such as installing green nets to control dust at work sites.

Chief Environment Officer Manisha Pradhan reported that fines amounting to ₹1.7 lakh have been imposed on various entities for air pollution violations. The TMC is monitoring air quality using pollution measurement devices installed at 50 project sites, with further installations expected soon.

Highlighting the urgency of addressing air pollution, Additional Commissioner Malvi stressed the need for coordination among all stakeholders, including developers and public agencies. He reiterated that strict compliance with guidelines from the Pollution Control Board and High Court is imperative to maintain air quality and safeguard public health.

He further urged citizens to report any air pollution violations via the toll-free number 8657887101 or email pcctmc.ho@gmail.com.

Additional Anti-Pollution Measures

• Ban on Straw Burning: Burning straw, garbage, and plastic in the open has been banned, and violators have been fined ₹20,000.
• Demolition Waste Disposal: A 300-ton capacity waste recycling project has recycled over 7,414 tons of demolition waste since March 2024. Construction sites are mandated to use GPS-enabled vehicles for debris transport.
• Vehicle Regulation: Action has been taken against 5909 vehicles for improper debris transport and 4008 vehicles lacking valid pollution under control (PUC) certificates. Non-compliant vehicles are barred from entering TMC limits.