MPCB Issues New Guidelines for RMC Plants to Combat Air Pollution in Mumbai | File Photo
Mumbai: The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued fresh guidelines to regulate Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) plants in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) to combat the city’s worsening air quality. The decision comes in response to a suo moto Public Interest Litigation (PIL) registered by the Bombay High Court on deteriorating air quality based on media reports.
The new guidelines, notified on November 27, 2024, are specific to the MMR region, while earlier norms issued in November 2016 will continue to apply to the rest of Maharashtra. This initiative was spearheaded by MPCB Chairman Siddhesh Kadam, with active support from Member Secretary Dr. Avinash Dhakne, who emphasized the need for urgent measures.
“In order to control the air pollution that is increasing due to development works, number of vehicles, and changes in the atmosphere in Mumbai city, we are issuing appropriate directions and taking actions to control the air pollution by coordinating with the Mumbai Municipal Corporation and taking immediate action against polluters. Efforts will be made to maintain satisfactory air quality,” said Kadam.
RMC plants, integral to urbanization, have been identified as significant contributors to air pollution due to dust emissions during operations. To address this, the guidelines outline stringent siting criteria and pollution control measures for both captive and commercial RMC plants.
Key Provisions:
For captive plants, new establishments require a project area of at least 20,000 square meters, with 2,000 square meters designated for the plant. Existing plants must fully enclose their operations within three months and provide a Rs 10 lakh bank guarantee to ensure compliance. Such plants must also be dismantled within a month after 70% of project work is completed.
For commercial plants, new units in municipal areas require MPCB approval, while those outside must maintain a 500-meter buffer from human habitations, schools, hospitals, and major roads. Existing commercial plants must also fully enclose their operations within three months and submit a Rs 25 lakh bank guarantee.
Pollution Control Measures:
Mandatory steps include covering all transfer points, water sprinkling, tree plantation, and installation of dust containment systems. Plants must monitor ambient air quality for particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and ensure emissions remain below prescribed limits. Measures like automated tyre washing and GPS tracking for vehicles carrying RMC are also required.
“We are giving necessary instructions to establishments to reduce air pollution caused by large-scale constructions, infrastructure works, and ready-mix plants,” added Dr. Dhakne.
The MPCB has directed its regional officers to ensure implementation of the guidelines and take strict action against non-compliance to improve air quality in Mumbai and surrounding areas.
