TMC inspects 80 Thane construction sites, issues 69 show-cause notices, fines seven builders Rs 3.5 lakh

The Thane Municipal Corporation has taken strong action against air pollution from construction work. After inspecting 80 construction sites in the city, it has issued show-cause notices to 69 builders.

Seven builders have also been fined for breaking pollution control rules. At Rs 50,000 each, the fines total Rs 3.5 lakh.

The inspection drive was carried out by the corporation's air pollution control department between October 26 and 30 and covered nine ward committee areas. The action follows a rise in dust and air pollution caused by various construction and infrastructure projects under way in Thane.

According to the corporation, violations were found at 69 of the 80 sites inspected. These builders have been given seven days to put the required pollution control measures in place.

About 419 construction projects are currently under way in Thane city. Dust, soil and debris from these sites are worsening air quality, which also poses a health risk to people living nearby.

While hearing a public interest litigation on air pollution, the Bombay High Court has issued certain directions to keep pollution from construction sites in check. Builders must follow 29 stipulated guidelines to reduce dust and ensure compliance with environmental norms. The corporation's inspection, however, showed that many sites were not implementing these required measures.

The guidelines include putting up protective sheets at least 25 feet high around buildings taller than 50 metres. They also require covering buildings on all sides with green nets and sprinkling water regularly to keep dust from rising.

Construction sites must also install systems to monitor air pollution. In cases of serious violations, the concerned authority can issue a stop-work notice or even seal the site.

The guidelines also prohibit open burning of waste. Use of eco-friendly fuel in crematoriums and bakeries has also been made mandatory.