Pune: MPCB Issues Notices To Two Lonavala Resorts For Environmental Violations
MPCB To Audit Sewage Treatment And Waste Segregation In Housing Societies, Violators To Face Action
PUNE: The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued show cause notices to two private resorts in Lonavala for violating environmental regulations. The board has directed representatives from both resorts to appear for a personal hearing on February 28 in Pune.
During an inspection conducted in January, MPCB officials found that one of the resorts, categorized as a five-star property, was not operating its effluent treatment plant and was discharging untreated wastewater into a nearby nullah. The resort also failed to submit an extended bank guarantee of ₹5 lakh, as required by MPCB regulations.
The second resort was found operating without the necessary approvals from the MPCB, including consent to establish and consent to operate. Additionally, the facility lacked essential infrastructure such as a sewage treatment plant (STP), an organic waste converter, an acoustic enclosure for its DG set, and proper air pollution control measures in its kitchen.
Following a report from the sub-regional officer, the MPCB’s regional office issued notices to both resorts, questioning why their operations should not be shut down and why their water and electricity supply should not be discontinued for non-compliance. The board has warned of legal action if the resorts fail to present a compliance plan during the hearing.
Lonavala, a popular hill station, has been grappling with rising environmental concerns, including air and water pollution caused by unregulated construction, increasing vehicular traffic, and improper waste disposal. The discharge of untreated wastewater into local water bodies has further aggravated pollution levels, with the hospitality sector being a major contributor to the issue.
MPCB has previously taken action against several establishments, including issuing show cause notices to the Lonavala Municipal Council for failing to manage waste effectively.
