MPCB warns Megha Engineering over noise at Thane Borivali tunnel project RMC plant
The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued a warning notice to Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL) over complaints of noise pollution and unauthorized night-time operations at its ready-mix concrete (RMC) plant near the Haware Citi township in Kasarvadavali, Thane. The notice, issued by the MPCB's Thane office on July 3, 2026, was disclosed to the Bombay High Court during a hearing on July 9, 2026, regarding a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by local residents.
The MPCB issued the warning following multiple complaints from Kasarvadavali residents regarding excessive noise caused by the RMC plant's operations, heavy vehicle movement, and night-time activities operating beyond permissible hours. The pollution control board directed MEIL to strictly adhere to its consent conditions and prevent any air, water, or noise pollution in the surrounding residential area.
Under the terms of the warning notice, MEIL must stop operating the RMC plant outside of permissible hours and submit a formal compliance report within seven days. The board cautioned that failure to address these issues within the stipulated timeframe would result in legal action.
During the court proceedings, the MPCB also submitted an inspection report based on a joint site visit conducted on June 25, 2026. The report confirmed that both RMC plants were active during the visit. While the inspection team noted that MEIL had set up three fogger systems, a water sprinkling system, and box-type enclosures, it recommended further dust-control measures. These recommendations included lowering the height of entry and exit points, installing additional sprinklers, and sealing gaps with tarpaulin sheets.
The inspection report also addressed a video complaint showing dust escaping from the facility's roof. MEIL representatives informed the inspectors that the roof sheets had been temporarily removed to install an ice plant and were reinstalled within 48 hours following objections from residents.
The PIL, filed by environmental activists Rohit Joshi and Prashant Mahadik along with nine residents of Haware Citi, seeks the total relocation of the RMC plant, casting yard, and labor camp due to health and pollution concerns. Represented by advocate Ronita Bhattacharya, the petitioners' case was adjourned by the Bombay High Court for two weeks because the counsel representing MEIL was unavailable for the scheduled hearing.
