Maharashtra Pollution Board’s Deleted Tweet on Mercedes Benz Plant Sparks Controversy

A tweet by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) regarding a visit to the Pune plant of German car manufacturer Mercedes Benz has stirred debate after being swiftly deleted. The tweet, posted on August 23, 2024, included three photos of MPCB Chairman Siddhesh Kadam inspecting the facility and mentioned the plant’s non-compliance with pollution control guidelines.

 It stated, “Important Notice: Mercedes Benz Assembly Plant Found Non-Compliant. During an inspection on August 23, 2024, by MPCB Chairman Mr. Siddhesh Kadam, it was revealed that the Mercedes Benz assembly plant is not adhering to the pollution control guidelines set by the MPCB.”

In response, Mercedes Benz officials expressed surprise, stating they had not received any formal notice or request from the MPCB about the alleged violations.

The company emphasized its commitment to adhering to stringent global standards for production quality and environmental sustainability. “We are ready to cooperate with the authorities and present all the required processes and documentation, and take any corrective actions if required,” Mercedes Benz said in a statement.