Ashish Shelar Orders Action on Blasting Violations at Dahisar East Transport Hub
Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar has directed authorities to take strict action against the contractor if violations are uncovered in blasting operations for the construction of the Transport Hub at Dahisar East Octroi Naka.
The directives were issued during a review meeting held at Mantralaya on Tuesday following complaints from local residents. Citizens reported cracks appearing in nearby buildings, excessive noise pollution, heavy dust, traffic congestion, and other disruptions caused by the ongoing project work.
During the meeting, officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation informed the minister that vibrations generated by the blasting operations had previously been assessed by the Indian Institute of Technology. Civic officials stated that controlled blasting was being conducted in accordance with IIT recommendations.
However, Shelar directed authorities to verify whether prescribed timings, safety norms, and other operational conditions were strictly adhered to during past blasting work. He stated that if any violations are established, the contractor responsible must face appropriate penal action. He also asked officials to explore safer and more advanced blasting technologies for the project.
Addressing concerns about structural damage to neighbouring buildings, Shelar instructed that affected properties be inspected by experts and subjected to formal structural audits. He noted that if the audits prove damage was caused by the blasting activities, authorities must take appropriate steps to compensate affected residents.
The Guardian Minister also ordered the Mumbai Suburban District Collector and the BMC to launch an inquiry into the transport of minerals and minor minerals from the project site. The inquiry will determine whether all mandatory permissions were secured, required royalties paid, and standard operating procedures followed.
Additionally, Shelar directed the project engineer and the Police Department to organise a public hearing with local residents within 15 days. The hearing will address grievances regarding traffic jams, dust, foul odours, and noise pollution, with a detailed report to be submitted to the authorities.
Shelar emphasised that while development works are necessary, no compromise will be made regarding the safety of citizens, reiterating that grievances must be addressed promptly.
