Mumbai, January 13, 2025
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a stop work notice under Section 354(A) of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888, to Veena Developers for non-compliance with environmental guidelines at their construction site near Infinity Mall, Andheri (West), Mumbai.
According to the notice (No. KW/DO1KW/60), the construction site was found to be in violation of several directives designed to mitigate air and noise pollution. An inspection conducted on January 1, 2025, revealed multiple infractions of guidelines issued by the Municipal Commissioner and the Principal Secretary. These guidelines were established following the Hon’ble High Court’s orders in Suo Motu Public Interest Litigation No. 3 of 2023, dated November 6, 2023.
Key Violations Identified
- Absence of wind-breaking barriers exceeding 25 feet at the site.
- Lack of tarpaulin or green cloth to cover the under-construction building.
- Failure to conduct regular water sprinkling to control dust.
- Uncovered construction materials and debris.
- Grinding, cutting, and drilling activities carried out in open areas without water fogging or sprinkling.
- Non-use of smog guns or sufficient water sprinklers during construction work.
Official Action
The designated officer of the BMC’s K/West Ward has ordered an immediate halt to all demolition and construction activities at the site. The notice explicitly warns that any continuation of work in defiance of this directive will result in legal action without further notice. Furthermore, the local police station has been directed to ensure the removal of all workers involved in demolition activities at the site.
Environmental Concerns
BMC officials have expressed concern over the contribution of ongoing construction activities across Mumbai to rising air, noise, and vibration pollution. These conditions pose significant risks to the environment and public health. In light of this, the municipal body has intensified its enforcement of environmental compliance norms at construction sites citywide.
Developer’s Responsibility
Veena Developers have been instructed to implement corrective measures to align with environmental guidelines. These include erecting adequate wind-breaking barriers, using tarpaulins to cover buildings, and employing smog guns and water sprinklers during construction activities.
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