Navi Mumbai: Construction Sites Face Rs 1.17 Crore Penalty for Non-Compliance with Pollution Control SOPs
Mumbai, 7th December 2024: The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has imposed fines totalling ₹1.17 crore on construction sites that failed to comply with approved standard operating procedures (SOPs) aimed at controlling air and noise pollution in the city.
A joint inspection by NMMC’s town planning and environment departments found violations at 78 construction sites across Navi Mumbai. Nerul recorded the highest number of violations with 24 sites, followed by Sanpada with 18. Airoli/Digha had 13, Belapur 10, Ghansoli 9, Vashi 7, and Koparkhairane 6.
“Previously, inspections were conducted at the ward level, but now the headquarters is overseeing SOP compliance. Many violations were found during these inspections based on a checklist provided to developers. Fines were imposed, and ward offices have been directed to issue notices accordingly,” stated an official from the town planning department.
The SOPs were introduced in response to a suo moto petition (PIL no 3/203) filed by the Bombay High Court on December 11, 2023. The Municipal Commissioner, Dr Kailas Shinde, approved the procedures on June 19, 2024, to mitigate air and noise pollution in the city.
“The SOPs require strict compliance, and a task force has been established to monitor adherence. Regular inspections are conducted, and reports are filed. Fines are calculated at ₹50 per square meter of the plot area. A checklist is followed, which includes requirements like fogging machines; failure to meet these results in fines,” explained an NMMC official.
