Panvel: The rising pollution crisis in Panvel, Taloja, and the adjoining areas of Navi Mumbai cropped up during the budget session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Panvel MLA Prashant Thakur and Uran MLA Mahesh Baldi raised serious concerns over rising river pollution caused by chemically contaminated wastewater from industries in the Thane and Raigad districts. They demanded immediate government intervention to mitigate the environmental damage.
According to the MLAs, hazardous effluents from Taloja MIDC are being discharged into the Kasadi River, while industrial units in Ambernath, Badlapur, Titwala, Ulhasnagar, and Dombivli are polluting the Baladhuni and Ulhas rivers. This contamination has severely impacted local communities, agriculture, and aquatic life.
Additionally, industrial wastewater from JSW Company near Dharamtar Creek in Pen taluka and PNP Company in Shahbaz, Alibag taluka, has put the fishing industry at risk. Despite repeated complaints from citizens and public representatives, the MLAs questioned the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board’s (MPCB) effectiveness in addressing the crisis.
Government’s Response
State Environment Minister Pankaja Munde acknowledged the issue, stating that industrial wastewater from Taloja MIDC is treated and discharged at designated sites as per National Institute of Oceanography guidelines. She assured that regular inspections are conducted and action is taken against non-compliant industries.
Munde also highlighted that a 10-member committee was formed in 2019 to study the impact of pollution on fishermen in Dharamtar Creek, and investigations are ongoing.
With pollution continuing to threaten rivers and livelihoods, the MLAs have urged the government to enforce stricter regulations against industries violating environmental norms.