NGT Suspends Baner Project Construction Due to Noise and Dust Violations

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Pune has ordered a halt to construction activities at a residential project in Baner after the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) flagged multiple violations of dust, noise, and construction waste norms. The tribunal's decision came in response to a petition filed by the Supreme Pallacio Cooperative Housing Society against a real estate LLP, alleging severe pollution affecting residents.

The residents, represented by advocates Maitreya Ghorpade and Manasi Thakare, requested the bench to issue an interim injunction against the construction until adequate measures for air pollution were implemented. NGT examined MPCB's inspection findings dated July 15, which highlighted issues such as inadequate acoustic barriers, improper storage of construction material, absence of controlled grinding or cutting areas, lack of water sprinkling, and failure to comply with construction and demolition waste rules.

MPCB informed the tribunal that it had issued directions to the real estate company on September 9 based on its findings. The tribunal expressed concern that MPCB should have taken timely action on these findings. Notices were subsequently issued to the State of Maharashtra, MPCB, the Pune Municipal Corporation, and the real estate company.

The builder argued that they had responded to MPCB's directions through a letter dated September 24. In response, the tribunal directed MPCB to take appropriate action based on the reply and proceed in accordance with the law. The bench stated, 'Till the next date, we direct that MPCB shall ensure that the project proponent does not proceed with the construction activities until they adopt and provide all the necessary measures to bring the dust and noise pollution within the prescribed standards/parameters for construction at the site in question.'

Advocate Maitreya Ghorpade told the media that the main case has been listed for final hearing on April 17, 2026, with the tribunal noting that the matter is now 'ripe' for final disposal. 'Separately, the builder's request for urgent hearing on the interim application has been listed for December 8, 2025,' he added. The representative of the real estate company refused to comment on the matter.

The decision by the NGT underscores the importance of adhering to environmental regulations in construction projects. The tribunal's order aims to protect the health and well-being of residents in the vicinity of the Baner project by ensuring that the construction activities are conducted in a manner that minimizes environmental impact. This case also highlights the role of regulatory bodies like the MPCB in enforcing environmental norms and the need for timely and effective action to address violations.