Mumbai Project Defies Stop-Work Notice, Ignites NGT Concern

Construction at the Vikhroli Business City in Mumbai proceeded last month despite a stop-work notice issued by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in January. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that inspections revealed multiple violations of air and noise pollution norms at the 8.8-acre commercial project.

Further inspections showed that deficiencies remained unaddressed, with construction continuing even after the BMC's notice. The site was found to lack mandatory dust-control measures such as perimeter barriers and anti-smog guns. Significant dust was present, construction debris was left uncovered, and diesel compressors operated without acoustic enclosures.

Air quality monitoring detected PM 10 and PM 2.5 levels exceeding national standards. The NGT has questioned the MPCB's delay in issuing a closure order despite these noted violations, demanding an additional affidavit within two weeks. A senior MPCB official stated that a closure order was being processed and was expected within days.

Despite the ongoing situation, a representative for the contractor asserted that pollution mitigation measures were in place and claimed no stop-work order had been received.