MPCB Pune Cracks Down on Environmental Violations: Notices Issued To Marriage Halls and Banquet Venues
MPCB Pune Cracks Down on Environmental Violations: Notices Issued To Marriage Halls and Banquet Venues ( Representational Image )
Pune, 6 April 2024 : In a stringent move against environmental violations, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has initiated action against 250 marriage halls, lawns, and banquet halls in Pune. Notices have been served to the proprietors, demanding proof of consent for conducting commercial activities within seven days.
Ravindra Andhale, the regional officer (Pune) of MPCB, elucidated, “Upon receiving a list of such establishments from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), we were prompted to scrutinize their compliance with our regulations. Consequently, we issued notices to ascertain their possession of our consent. Establishments in possession of our consent are urged to provide the necessary documentation. Those lacking consent must promptly comply or provide justifications for continuing their commercial activities. Failure to take action will result in legal repercussions, including the disconnection of water and electricity supplies.”
The notice underscores the imperative for adequate air, water, and noise pollution control measures, as well as proper solid waste management, in alignment with guidelines set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Earlier, on February 27, MPCB had issued a circular urging marriage lawns and halls to obtain consent and adhere to CPCB environmental guidelines. Subsequently, notices were dispatched to 182 such establishments to ensure compliance.
The latest notice, issued on March 28, highlights the continued operation of these establishments without MPCB consent and their failure to implement essential pollution control measures mandated by CPCB guidelines. This disregard has led to the discharge of untreated effluents and air emissions, contributing to water and air pollution in the surrounding areas.
An MPCB official stressed that failure to respond within seven days would result in legal action under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, without further warning. The board remains resolute in its commitment to enforce environmental regulations for the protection of public health and the environment.
