Residents of Kharghar Sector 19A have approached the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC), seeking immediate intervention against a private construction project that they allege is causing severe dust pollution and violating environmental safety norms.
In a memorandum submitted to the PMC Commissioner, residents claimed that construction activities, including excavation, earth filling and frequent movement of heavy vehicles and dumpers, have resulted in excessive dust accumulation across nearby residential areas.
Residents of housing societies such as Kesar Symphony, Dream Heights and other surrounding buildings stated that they have been facing continuous air quality concerns due to ongoing construction work. They alleged that dust generated from the site has spread across the neighbourhood, affecting daily life and causing discomfort among residents.
According to the residents, senior citizens, children and individuals with respiratory issues have been particularly impacted due to increased dust levels. They claimed that the developer has failed to implement necessary pollution control measures required at construction sites.
The memorandum alleges that several environmental safeguards are not being followed, including regular water sprinkling, covering construction material, ensuring soil-carrying dumpers are covered with tarpaulins, providing wheel-washing facilities and adopting measures to control dust emissions.
Residents have requested the PMC to conduct an immediate inspection of the construction site and ensure that the developer complies with all municipal and environmental regulations. They have also demanded strict monitoring of dust suppression measures and compulsory covering of all vehicles transporting soil and construction material.
The residents further sought action against the developer under provisions of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act and other applicable environmental laws if violations are established.
They urged the civic authority to treat the complaint on priority, stating that immediate steps are necessary to safeguard public health, maintain environmental standards and prevent further inconvenience to residents living near the construction site.
Source: The Free Press Journal
