December 26, 2025: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has asked the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to conduct a detailed inspection of construction sites in Powai following complaints of dust and noise pollution linked to ongoing development activities in the area. Acting on representations received through the Prime Minister’s grievance portal, the CPCB issued a letter dated December 22 directing the state pollution watchdog to verify the allegations and ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
The complaint was filed by BN Kumar, director of the NGO NatConnect Foundation, who raised concerns over environmental degradation and potential public health risks arising from excavation and construction work in Powai. In its communication, the CPCB stressed that the MPCB must assess compliance with the Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016, and other applicable environmental norms.
“The state pollution control board is required to verify the complaint, inspect the site and ensure compliance with the provisions of the Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016, and other applicable environmental guidelines,” the CPCB said. It also clarified that local authorities are responsible for monitoring compliance, initiating action in case of violations, and sharing inspection findings with the complainant.
Residents and environmental activists have alleged that large-scale construction is being carried out without basic dust-mitigation measures such as water sprinkling, barricading, debris covering or the use of protective nets. Concerns have also been raised about excessive noise from heavy machinery and the movement of uncovered dumpers through residential lanes.
According to residents, dust frequently spreads into nearby housing societies and public roads, reducing visibility and causing daily inconvenience. “No dust-control measures are being followed, no partitions, no water sprinkling, no enclosures, no nets and no pollution-management systems of any kind,” said activist Dr Ratan Sharda. He added that fine particulate matter visibly lingers in the air and settles inside homes and vehicles, triggering complaints of breathlessness, coughing, throat irritation and burning eyes.
“Continuous vibrations from heavy machinery have also sparked fears of structural damage to nearby residential buildings,” said activist Milan Bhat.
The complaint further pointed to debris spilling onto roads and a lack of visible safety or pollution-control arrangements. MPCB officials are now expected to inspect the site and evaluate compliance with air and noise pollution norms, construction timings and waste-handling practices, with violations potentially inviting action under environmental laws.
Source: Hindustan Times
