The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has ordered the closure of four ready-mix concrete (RMC) plants in Mumbai as part of a strengthened enforcement drive to control rising air pollution levels in the city. The action follows inspections that found the units violating prescribed environmental and pollution control norms.
Along with the shutdowns, the pollution control authority has taken regulatory action against 37 additional concrete batching plants and recovered environmental compensation amounting to ₹1.87 crore. The measures are aimed at ensuring strict compliance across the construction and infrastructure sector, which has been identified as a major contributor to particulate pollution in urban areas.
To intensify monitoring, MPCB has deployed dedicated inspection teams, with four squads operating in Mumbai and two in Navi Mumbai. These teams are conducting regular site visits to verify dust suppression systems, emission control equipment and adherence to operational guidelines mandated for concrete manufacturing units.
Officials stated that flying squads will continue surprise inspections, and any plant found flouting norms will face immediate action, including suspension of operations. The crackdown follows a high-level review of air quality management measures and reflects the board’s zero-tolerance approach towards environmental violations.
The move comes amid sustained concerns over deteriorating air quality in Mumbai, particularly during periods of heightened construction activity. Authorities are also coordinating with civic agencies to ensure pollution mitigation measures are enforced at major infrastructure and real estate project sites.
The MPCB said the ongoing enforcement drive is part of a broader strategy to improve urban air quality, reduce construction-related dust emissions and safeguard public health across the Mumbai metropolitan region.
