PCMC Cracks Down on Builders for Dr
Special Correspondent
pecial Correspondent
Pimpri Chinchwad: The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has taken decisive action against three building projects for violating environmental regulations and contributing to escalating air pollution in the region. Additionally, two builders have been fined a total of Rs. 1.75 lakh for neglecting essential pollution control measures during construction.
As Pimpri-Chinchwad experiences rapid urbanisation and increased industrialisation, the city is grappling with heightened levels of air and noise pollution. This surge in construction activities has significantly deteriorated air quality, negatively impacting citizens’ health. In response, the PCMC has intensified its efforts to hold builders accountable for environmental non-compliance, particularly those failing to implement proper air and noise pollution control measures.
To encourage sustainable urban development, the municipal corporation has introduced stringent eco-friendly construction policies. A dedicated monitoring agency, comprising 32 regional staff members, has been deployed across eight wards to identify and address violations promptly. The PCMC’s enforcement actions are aimed at improving air quality and promoting environmental sustainability in the city.
Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh has urged strict action against violations, including those related to air, noise, and water pollution. PCMC City Engineer Makarand Nikam emphasized, “Builders have been instructed to follow adequate pollution control measures. Construction must comply with directives outlined under Reference No. 5. However, there has been non-compliance with air pollution control measures, resulting in environmental violations. Builders who fail to implement these measures will face penalties and project suspensions.”
Violations and Penalties:
1. Anshul Casa Project, Wakad
2. Shri Krishna Wonder Properties, Akurdi
3. Mantra Sky Towers, Akurdi
Action Plan for Air Quality Management:
To tackle worsening air pollution, the PCMC has set up a tiered response system based on the Air Quality Index (AQI):
Stage 1 (AQI 101–300): Focus on controlling road dust, cleaning unauthorized waste, and enhancing traffic management.
Stage 2 (AQI 301–400): Restrictions on diesel generators, road cleaning initiatives, and promoting public transport.
Stage 3 (AQI 401–500): Closure of highly polluting industries, creation of vehicle-restricted zones, and severe penalties for violations.
Stage 4 (AQI above 500): Vehicle bans, possible school closures, and tougher fines to mitigate pollution.
New Regulations for Sustainable Construction:
As part of the PCMC’s efforts to curb environmental damage from construction activities, a new rule mandates that builders must use at least 10% recycled material in their projects. The PCMC operates a Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Management Plant at the Moshi garbage depot, processing 150 metric tonnes of construction waste daily. Failure to adhere to the recycled material requirement will result in the denial of the Occupancy Certificate (Building Completion Certificate) for the project.
The ongoing crackdown on construction violations serves as a warning to developers in Pimpri-Chinchwad, urging them to comply with environmental standards and help improve the city’s air quality.
