Kashimira, December 26, 2024: The Watchdog Foundation has raised a serious complaint against an illegal Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) Plant operating in the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). The plant, located at Mashacha Pada near the Marathi Hasya Jatra Studio in Kashimira, is accused of causing significant air pollution and violating environmental norms.
RMC Plants are notorious for emitting harmful particulate matter and toxins into the air. The unchecked emissions from the plant are allegedly contributing to the deteriorating Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai and surrounding areas. The pollution poses severe health risks to residents and threatens the ecological balance of the already fragile ESZ.
The Foundation has expressed dismay at the apparent failure of authorities, including the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), and the state government, to regulate the plant’s operations. They claim that these bodies have turned a blind eye to the illegal functioning of the plant due to “the blessings of concerned officials.”
In a letter sent to Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and other senior officials, the Foundation has called for urgent action, demanding:
1. Immediate closure of the RMC Plant at Mashacha Pada and any similar illegal units in eco-sensitive zones.
2. Accountability from officials responsible for granting permissions or failing to enforce environmental regulations.
3. Stricter monitoring mechanisms to prevent future violations in the SGNP’s vicinity and other protected areas.
4. Public transparency on measures being taken to improve air quality in Mumbai.
The Foundation emphasizes that the plant’s operations are in blatant violation of environmental norms and are compromising the health and well-being of citizens. They highlight the urgent need for intervention to protect Mumbai’s ecosystem and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
The Watchdog Foundation has demanded a thorough investigation into the alleged regulatory lapses and called for punitive actions against those involved. “The health of citizens and the protection of our environment are non-negotiable,” the Foundation stated in its letter, urging authorities to act swiftly to prevent further degradation of the region’s air quality.
The residents of Kashimira and surrounding areas now await a response from the state government and relevant authorities, hoping for decisive action to address the pressing issue.