The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised serious concerns about an illegal quarry operating dangerously close to the Tata Cancer Hospital in Kharghar. This environmental violation has prompted immediate action from central authorities.
Government Response and Investigation
The Centre has formally requested the Maharashtra government to conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter. In response, the state government has referred the investigation to the Raigad district administration for detailed examination and appropriate action.
The case came to light through environmental monitoring and local complaints about unauthorized mining activities in the sensitive area. The proximity of the illegal quarry to a major healthcare facility treating cancer patients has raised significant health and safety concerns.
Timeline and Official Action
The issue gained official recognition on November 19, 2025, when the NGT formally flagged the violation. Journalist Naina Jain reported the development, bringing national attention to the environmental breach.
The Raigad district administration now faces the critical task of investigating the extent of the illegal quarrying operations and determining how long these activities have been occurring without proper authorization.
Environmental and Health Implications
The location of the illegal quarry near the Tata Cancer Hospital presents multiple concerns. Dust and pollution from quarrying operations could potentially affect patients with compromised immune systems receiving treatment at the facility.
Environmental experts emphasize that such unauthorized activities violate multiple environmental protection laws and regulations governing mining operations near residential and healthcare institutions.
The NGT's intervention demonstrates the growing scrutiny of environmental violations across Maharashtra and highlights the importance of protecting sensitive areas from unauthorized industrial activities.
