MPCB Bans New RMC Plants in MMR Amid Air Pollution Concerns

Amid rising air pollution levels in Mumbai, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has banned the establishment of new ready-mix concrete (RMC) plants within municipal corporation limits in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Existing plants have been instructed to implement anti-dust measures, including curtains at entry and exit gates and water sprinkling on vehicle tyres, within the next three months. Non-compliance may result in penalties, including the seizure of bank guarantees or even closure.

For new captive RMC plants outside corporation areas, the MPCB mandates a box-like structure covering 10% of the allotted land with tin or similar materials. A bank guarantee of ₹10 lakh is required, and the facility must be dismantled after completing 70% of construction. Commercial RMC plants must maintain a 500-metre buffer from residential areas, highways, and institutions such as schools, hospitals, and courts. They also require a minimum of 4,000 square metres of land and a bank guarantee of ₹25 lakh. The MPCB has further stipulated that all RMC units must monitor air quality and ensure particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) levels do not exceed 100µg/m³ and 60µg/m³, respectively. These monitors must be linked to the MPCB’s central monitoring system. Expansion of existing plants is prohibited, and any consent applications for such projects will be treated as new proposals. MPCB Chairman Siddhesh Kadam assured that the board is collaborating with civic authorities to curb pollution. Mumbai recorded a moderate air quality index (AQI) of 128 on Friday, reinforcing the urgency of these measures.