MPCB Sets 20-Day Deadline for Pune Concrete Plants to Curb Pollution
The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued a strict directive to owners of ready-mix concrete (RMC) plants in the Bavdhan Budruk area of Pune, demanding compliance with updated pollution control guidelines within 20 days. Failure to adhere could result in legal action, as announced by MPCB regional officer Babasaheb Kukade on Friday.
Verification and Compliance Checks Underway
Kukade confirmed that there are six RMC plants operating in the region. While all are legally established, the MPCB is currently scrutinizing their documentation to ensure nothing is missing or expired. "We have given them 20 days to fully implement the guidelines issued on October 17, 2025, specifically for RMC plants," stated Kukade. "If they fail to comply, we will take stringent measures as per the law."
Resident Complaints Prompt Action
This move follows a meeting between MPCB officials, RMC plant owners, and local residents, triggered by ongoing grievances about deteriorating air quality. Residents reported that air quality index (AQI) readings, often monitored via mobile apps, have frequently exceeded 300, indicating hazardous conditions. Additionally, traffic congestion at Omkar Garden Chowk, caused by heavy vehicles from these plants navigating narrow roads, has exacerbated concerns.
Community Voices Demand Sustainable Solutions
Krunnal Gharre, a Bavdhan Budruk resident who participated in the online meeting, emphasized that the community is not opposed to business operations but insists on health and safety standards. "We expect these plants to meet AQI and all other pollution control parameters," Gharre said. He highlighted that temporary traffic restrictions during peak hours are insufficient, calling for road widening and alternative routes to manage increasing traffic. "Direct engagement between plant owners and the community is crucial for resolving these issues effectively."
Detailed Pollution Control Guidelines
According to the MPCB guidelines, RMC plants must adhere to strict emission limits:
- Particulate matter (PM10) levels at the plot boundary should not surpass 100 µg/m³.
- PM2.5 levels must remain below 60 µg/m³.
To achieve this, plants are required to implement several measures:
- Install water sprinkler systems within the premises to reduce airborne dust.
- Deploy fogging systems near sources of dust generation.
- Ensure all plant units are fully enclosed on all sides.
- Thoroughly clean vehicles exiting the facilities to prevent dust spread.
The MPCB's proactive stance aims to balance industrial activity with environmental protection, addressing both pollution and infrastructure challenges in the growing Pune suburb.
