Polluting Neri Iron Ore Unit Ignores MPCB Notice Slapped A Month Ago The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) faces growing scrutiny over its enforcement capabilities after an iron ore processing unit in Neri village failed to address a show-cause notice issued nearly a month prior. The unit, located in Nagpur, has been accused of causing severe pollution by blanketing the surrounding area, including crops and water sources, with coal dust. Despite a formal notice from the MPCB, the company has not responded or taken corrective measures, raising concerns about regulatory accountability. The inspection of the unit, conducted by MPCB officials on February 26, revealed multiple violations of environmental standards. These included unchecked fugitive emissions from the rotary kiln and coal conveyor systems, as well as inadequate dust suppression mechanisms. Based on these findings, the MPCB issued a show-cause notice on March 17, granting the company seven days to submit an explanation and a corrective action plan. However, as of April 24, no response had been received, marking a delay of over five weeks beyond the deadline. The prolonged inaction has sparked criticism, particularly as pollution complaints continue to mount. The inspection report highlighted the absence of basic pollution mitigation infrastructure, such as ineffective water sprinkling systems to control dust. Additionally, the unit was found to be operating without enclosed storage facilities for raw materials and finished products, exacerbating the spread of particulate matter. Other lapses included the lack of pucca internal roads, which contribute to dust generation due to vehicular movement, and poor sewage management within the premises.#nagpur #maharashtra_pollution_control_board #neri_village #remote_monitoring_van #hema_deshpande
