Pune: MPCB Issues Show Cause Notice To MIDC Hinjawadi Over Sewage Treatment Violations
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Pune, November 11, 2024 – The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued a show cause notice to the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) at Rajiv Gandhi IT Park in Hinjawadi, citing serious compliance lapses in the operation of its common sewage treatment plant (CSTP). MPCB raised concerns about the plant’s underperformance and pollution risks, setting a deadline for MIDC’s response and mandating a physical hearing scheduled for November 22 at MPCB’s Pune office.
The MPCB’s notice refers to a reported fish kill in the Mula River in September, allegedly due to water pollution, which spurred investigations into MIDC’s sewage management. During a recent visit to the CSTP on September 24, MPCB officials observed that the plant, designed with a 4.0 million liters per day (MLD) capacity, was operating at only 1.5 MLD, with several key units non-operational. Tanks were found in a septic state, emitting foul odors, and the absence of a proper disinfection system raised further environmental risks.
The notice highlighted that untreated or inadequately treated wastewater was being discharged into the Mula River, further violating environmental safety norms. Samples collected from the CSTP were reportedly black in color, signaling non-compliance with pollution control standards. Additionally, MIDC had failed to submit a bank guarantee of ₹35 lakh, required as part of its environmental compliance obligations.
MPCB officer stated that MIDC has been asked to address these issues promptly and attend the scheduled hearing. The pollution control board is assessing potential penalties, including seizing the bank guarantee, if MIDC does not take corrective action to curb pollution and adhere to operational standards.
