In a bid to tackle air and noise pollution caused by construction activities, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has imposed fines totaling Rs.1.40 crore on 87 developers. The penalties were issued for non-compliance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) drafted to minimize environmental harm from construction and redevelopment sites.
Non-Compliance with Pollution Control SOPs
On-site inspections by NMMC officials revealed widespread violations, including negligence in controlling dust and noise pollution and improper handling of disturbances caused by blasting activities.
The SOPs, mandated by the Bombay High Court on December 11, 2023, and published by the NMMC on August 1, 2024, include:
- Installation of CCTV cameras at construction sites.
- Erection of 30-foot-high tin sheets to contain dust.
- Deployment of dust fogging machines.
Violations were reported across various locations in Navi Mumbai:
- Belapur: 10 sites
- Nerul: 24 sites
- Sanpada: 18 sites
- Vashi: 7 sites
- Koparkhairane: 6 sites
- Ghansoli: 9 sites
- Airoli/Digha: 13 sites
Developers were fined at a rate of Rs.50 per square metre of the plot area.
Fines and Enforcement Updates
So far, Rs.1,40,04,039 has been collected, with 72 developers paying their penalties. The remaining violators have been given an eight-day deadline to either comply with the SOPs or pay the fines.
An NMMC official warned that stricter actions will follow if violations persist:
- Increased penalty amounts for repeat offenders.
- Stop Work Notices for those who fail to comply.
The Town Planning Department reiterated its commitment to ongoing enforcement. Developers who continue to flout the rules after being penalized will face further sanctions, including work stoppages.
A Step Toward Sustainable Development
The NMMC’s crackdown is part of a broader initiative to ensure sustainable urban development. By enforcing compliance with environmental SOPs, the corporation aims to protect public health and curb the adverse effects of unchecked construction activity.
Developers are urged to adopt environmentally responsible practices and strictly adhere to SOPs to avoid penalties and contribute to a cleaner, safer Navi Mumbai.
Stay updated on NMMC initiatives and actions against pollution violators.
