Vashi: Ongoing concreting work at the Mini-Seashore walking track in Sector 9A, Vashi, has raised environmental concerns after labourers allegedly dumped construction debris and waste into the adjacent holding pond.

The holding pond, which is reportedly poorly maintained and rarely cleaned, already faces algae accumulation, resulting in polluted and foul-smelling water. The issue has raised further concern as lakhs of fish had earlier died in the pond due to water pollution, as reported by Newsband.

NatConnect Foundation termed the dumping “absolutely reckless” and urged the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) to intervene immediately.

“The civic authorities have a responsibility to sensitise workers against harming the environment and prevent such irresponsible behaviour,” said NatConnect director B N Kumar.

Kumar also pointed out that the pond is already under pressure due to dirty water and algae formation, which he alleged has been overlooked by the civic authorities.

Vashi ward officer Sukhdev Yedve assured action against the contractor. “Our engineer will visit the spot tomorrow and direct labourers to discard the waste properly in the garbage bins. We will also initiate action on the contractor for irresponsible behaviour.”

Meanwhile, walkers complained about delays and inconvenience caused by the excavation of paver blocks.

“The contractor could have removed the paver blocks in phases so that it was not so dusty in the entire stretch. Now we are having problems with walking as well as breathing,” said 80-year-old regular walker Revati Desai.