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Cancer hospital hit by quarry blasts, NGT steps in
29 Jul
Summary
- Quarry blasting causes structural damage to cancer hospital buildings.
- Dust pollution from quarries exceeds limits, risking patient health.
- NGT seeks collector's response on quarry operations post-2021.
Concerns raised by the Tata Cancer Hospital in Navi Mumbai regarding quarry blasting and dust pollution have prompted action from the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The hospital reported that blasting vibrations caused structural damage to its campus buildings. Additionally, dust clouds frequently exceeded permissible limits, posing respiratory hazards to patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy.
The NGT's western zone bench has sought a response from the Raigad district collector concerning these issues. The tribunal noted a lack of clarity regarding quarrying activities after 2020-21. While previous permissions were granted up to that period, information on subsequent operations remains unclear.
The NGT is also awaiting a report from a four-member joint committee that inspected the quarrying and crushing operations and their environmental impact. NatConnect Foundation has highlighted ongoing blasting sounds and dust concerns, urging authorities to investigate and seal any unauthorized quarries.
