Pune: A well-known luxury resort in Lonavla has come under scrutiny for failing to adhere to environmental regulations. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) issued a notice to Fariyas Holiday Resort on March 20, citing violations of pollution control norms and instructing the establishment to take immediate corrective measures. The directive underscores growing concerns about the environmental impact of the hospitality sector, reinforcing the need for sustainable practices.
Situated in Frichley Hills, Maval, Fariyas Holiday Resort has been directed to comply with pollution control standards under Section 33A of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and Section 31A of the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. The order follows an extensive review process, including legal submissions, site evaluations, and a personal hearing held on February 28.
The notice refers to previous correspondences, including the Consent to Operate issued in 2022, recommendations for legal action from MPCB’s Sub-Regional Office, and earlier warnings sent in February 2025. Despite these prior engagements, concerns over the resort’s environmental compliance persisted.
MPCB has mandated that the resort’s Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) must function continuously to ensure wastewater is treated effectively and in line with environmental norms. Additionally, Fariyas Holiday Resort is required to submit a renewed bank guarantee of ₹5 lakh, along with a 12% interest charge, as per MPCB’s guidelines.
The directive also includes an immediate payment of ₹3,820 towards the Joint Vigilance Sample (JVS) bill. The resort must submit a comprehensive compliance report within seven days, failing which it may face stricter enforcement actions under environmental protection laws.
Maharashtra, a major tourism hub, has seen increased monitoring of luxury resorts and hotels due to concerns about wastewater management, air pollution, and high water consumption. With rising environmental awareness, authorities are tightening their oversight on businesses that fail to meet sustainability standards.
Despite attempts to seek a response from Fariyas Holiday Resort, Mirror was unable to reach the management via phone or email.
