Polluting Neri Iron Ore Unit Ignores MPCB Notice Slapped A Month Ago

Nagpur: The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) is facing serious questions over enforcement lapses after an iron ore processing unit in Neri village failed to respond to a show-cause notice for more than a month, even as pollution complaints continue to mount.The unit, accused of blanketing the village, crops, and water sources with coal dust, was inspected by MPCB officials on February 26 following complaints from the local gram panchayat and residents. The inspection reportedly revealed multiple violations of environmental norms, including unchecked fugitive emissions from the rotary kiln and coal conveyor systems, pointing to inadequate dust suppression mechanisms. Based on these findings, the MPCB issued a show-cause notice on March 17, giving the company seven days to submit its explanation and a corrective action plan. As of April 24, the unit has neither responded nor taken visible corrective steps, a delay of over five weeks beyond the deadline. The prolonged inaction has raised concerns about regulatory oversight and accountability in pollution control enforcement. Inspection findings had flagged the absence of basic pollution mitigation infrastructure, including ineffective or missing water sprinkling systems to control dust. As per the findings, the unit was also operating without enclosed storage facilities for raw materials and finished products, increasing the spread of particulate matter in surrounding areas. Further lapses included the lack of pucca internal roads, which exacerbates dust generation due to vehicular movement, and poor sewage management within the premises. Officials observed untreated wastewater accumulating due to the absence of septic tanks or soak pits for workers' quarters. Regional Officer Hema Deshpande said even after repeated follow-ups, no reply or compliance report has been received. "The board has now initiated further steps," said Deshpande.A remote monitoring van was deployed on Friday to assess current pollution levels, and a report from the sub-regional office is awaited. Deshpande said the matter would be escalated to the MPCB headquarters in Mumbai for approval of stricter action. "As per procedure, action may include financial penalties and even closure if violations continue," she said.The delay in enforcement has drawn criticism, especially as residents continue to suffer the impact of pollution flagged nearly two months ago. The company, in its earlier response, had denied all allegations, claiming full compliance with environmental norms.
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