MPCB warns polluting industries

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued notices to small-scale industries in Nandanvan Industrial Estate after they were found polluting the air in Mulund (West).

The residents, who moved the National Green Tribunal (NGT) last year, had complained that the industrial unit was releasing toxic and hazardous smoke on a daily basis in the vicinity of residential areas.

“Huge black smoke emitting from the industrial units during day time compel us to keep our windows shut throughout the day. After we complained to the industries, they stopped the operations during the daytime but resumed it at night. Our children are suffering from severe cough,” said Anuj Desai, a local from Asha Nagar.

The MPCB, in its inspection, found that the industries were manufacturing plastics with a toxic substance, causing a foul smell in the vicinity. “We have issued notices to these small scale industrial units. This is the last warning against emitting hazardous smoke. We found that the chimney set up at the estate is at a lower height, which is causing pollution over the residential societies. If any industry is still found flouting the norms, they would be ordered to shut operations,” said an MPCB officer.