The Naigaon police have registered a case against six people for allegedly dumping cement waste and construction debris along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Highway in East Naigaon, raising concerns over traffic safety and pollution of nearby natural water sources.
The action follows an incident in which construction waste was allegedly disposed of along the roadside, creating an obstruction for motorists and affecting the surrounding environment. Police said the material also posed potential risks to public health, particularly for residents living near Bapane village.
The case comes amid increasing construction and redevelopment activity in Mumbai and adjoining areas, which is generating large quantities of demolition material and excavated waste. Authorities have observed that vehicles carrying such material are allegedly transporting it to highway stretches and other open areas within Vasai-Virar instead of using designated disposal facilities.
Illegal dumping has reportedly been noticed at several locations, including Versova Bridge, Sasunavghar, Maljipada, Chinchoti, Naigaon, Sativali Phata, Pelhar and Virar.
Waste Dumped Near Railway Bridge
On September 19, construction debris generated from the demolition of a building was allegedly dumped near the roadside close to the Vasmanaya Railway Bridge on the highway.
The waste reportedly narrowed the road space and disrupted traffic movement. Authorities also expressed concern that substances contained in construction waste, when left exposed, could enter nearby water sources and affect local residents.
Following the incident, the Naigaon police initiated legal proceedings against those allegedly responsible.
Case Registered Under Multiple Laws
Police have booked the six accused under Sections 125, 285, 279, 326(C) and 315 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with applicable provisions of the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1995.
The case forms part of a broader enforcement effort against unauthorised dumping of construction and demolition waste along important road corridors in the Vasai-Virar region.
With construction activity continuing across the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region, the movement and disposal of debris remains a growing civic challenge. Improper dumping can obstruct roads, degrade surrounding land and waterways, and create additional safety concerns for commuters and nearby communities.
Police have begun further action against vehicles and individuals suspected of using highway stretches as informal dumping grounds. The latest case is expected to put additional focus on ensuring that construction waste generated in Mumbai and neighbouring areas is transported to authorised disposal locations rather than being discarded in open spaces or along major highways.
Source: The Free Press Journal
