Kharghar Residents Demand PMC Action Against Construction Site Over Dust Pollution
Residents of Sector 19 and 19A in Kharghar, near the Kesar Symphony and Dream Heights housing societies in Panvel, have submitted a memorandum to the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) demanding immediate action against a private construction project. The residents alleged that the developer is violating environmental norms and causing severe dust pollution that is affecting the health of local citizens.
The memorandum, which was addressed to the PMC commissioner, states that residents of Kesar Symphony, Dream Heights, and other nearby housing societies have been facing persistent dust pollution. According to the residents, this is due to large-scale construction activities in Sector 19A, including excavation, earth filling, and the continuous movement of heavy vehicles and dumpers throughout the day.
Locals claimed that the developer has failed to implement mandatory dust mitigation measures, allowing dust to spread across the neighbourhood. This ongoing pollution has led to respiratory problems, eye irritation, and deteriorating air quality, particularly impacting senior citizens, children, and individuals with existing health conditions.
The memorandum further alleges that the developer is not complying with prescribed environmental safeguards. Residents noted a lack of regular water sprinkling at the construction site, uncovered construction materials, and dumpers carrying soil without tarpaulin covers. Additionally, the site lacks wheel-washing facilities and other necessary measures to prevent dust emissions.
In response to these conditions, the residents have urged the civic body to immediately inspect the project site and direct the developer to strictly comply with environmental and municipal regulations. They have requested the enforcement of regular dust suppression measures and mandated that all dumpers transporting soil and construction materials be covered with tarpaulins.
Furthermore, the residents have sought stringent action against the developer under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act and other applicable environmental protection laws if violations are confirmed during the inspection. The complainants appealed to the PMC to treat the matter with urgency in the interest of public health, safety, and environmental protection.
