L&T’s RMC plant sealed over pollution concerns

L&T’s RMC plant sealed over pollution concerns

L T s RMC plant sealed – Authorities in Jalasar, Palghar district, have sealed a ready-mix concrete (RMC) facility operated by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) due to alleged lack of clearance from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). The decision follows complaints from local residents and a local group, prompting a review of the plant’s compliance status.

Plant Setup and Purpose

Larsen & Toubro established the plant in Jalasar village, Saphale area, two years ago to support the construction of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor. The firm secured the contract for this project, which traverses 73 villages across Palghar district, including 21 in the Vasai-Virar region.

Residents’ Complaints

After the facility became operational, local residents raised concerns about dust and air pollution. The Agri Sena, a local organization, also submitted grievances to the revenue department. The group later filed an RTI application, which revealed the plant did not have the required MPCB approvals, according to residents.

Revocation of NOC

Following the RTI findings, the Jalasar Gram Panchayat canceled the no-objection certificate for the plant. Palghar Tehsildar Ramesh Shendge stated that the facility was sealed earlier this week, but the bullet train project continues without interruption.

“The company failed to secure the necessary permissions from the Pollution Control Board. As a result, we sealed the plant. They will soon resubmit their application to the collector for approval,” he said.

Official Responses

Palghar Collector Indu Rani Jakhar pointed out that while the gram panchayat raised issues and revoked the NOC, legal guidelines state that an NOC cannot be revoked without proper procedure. She clarified, “Actions concerning statutory permissions, environmental adherence, or regulatory breaches are handled by the relevant authorities in accordance with legal frameworks.”

“Farmers deserve to have their concerns addressed. After giving up their land for the project, they shouldn’t be overlooked,” said Kailash Patil, Agri Sena leader.

Santosh Soni, representing L&T’s administration, did not reply to HT’s inquiries for comment.