NMMC issues SOP for pollution control at construction sites

Navi Mumbai: NMMC has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to address the issues of noise pollution, air pollution, and blasting caused by ongoing construction and redevelopment works in the city. The circular, which is available on the NMMC websitewww.nmmc.gov.in, comes in response to persistent complaints from citizens and public representatives.NMMC has urged the developers and contractors to strictly follow the SOP in order to mitigate rising pollution levels in the city. The Bombay High Court filed a Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation in March 2023 regarding the abatement of air pollution, and an order was passed on Dec 11, 2023. To find a lasting solution, NMMC Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde formed a committee of expert members under the chairmanship of additional commissioner Shirish Aardwad, which was assigned to prepare detailed guidelines devised for developers. The committee prepared the SOP and a Penal Code for air and noise pollution at construction project sites after various meetings. Shinde sanctioned the resolution, which was adopted by the expert committee, and the circular was approved. A task force has been appointed to monitor ongoing construction projects as per the circular. The local ward officer is required to submit an up-to-date report at least once every week to the director of the town planning department until the completion of all project sites where excavation and construction are underway in their jurisdiction. Shinde has instructed the concerned officials to ensure that the pollution control protocol is adhered to by all stakeholders.