Pune: Unauthorized RMC Plants Near Autowadi Lake Spark Pollution Concerns
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Undri, 17th November 2025: Residents of Undri have raised serious concerns over three unauthorized Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) plants operating behind Autowadi Lake. They allege that these units are functioning without environmental clearance and are causing severe air and noise pollution.
According to locals, the plants operate around the clock, with heavy vehicles moving in and out every five minutes. This has led to constant dust emissions, persistent noise, and rapid deterioration of nearby roads. Residents claim that the internal road leading to Tata Innora has been badly damaged, making daily commutes difficult. Dust levels are reportedly so high that many cannot step onto their balconies, forcing families to keep windows shut throughout the day.
Anand Manaktala, a senior executive at a reputed IT company, told this reporter: “These RMC plants are completely unauthorized and have been set up without any environmental clearance. They are polluting the environment, damaging public roads, and making it impossible to live peacefully. We demand immediate action from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board and the National Green Tribunal.”
Repeated complaints to local authorities, residents say, have gone unheeded. They are now demanding a formal inspection and shutdown of the illegal units, urging the issue be escalated to the Pollution Control Board and the NGT for urgent intervention.
Locals fear that continued operations could cause long-term environmental damage to Autowadi Lake, a vital natural water body in the area. Citizens are appealing to civic officials to take strict action against the RMC plant operators, restore damaged roads, and ensure pollution-free surroundings for thousands of Undri residents.
The issue highlights the broader challenges of balancing industrial growth with environmental protection and public health. As the city of Pune continues to grow, the need for stringent regulations and enforcement becomes increasingly critical. Residents hope that their voices will be heard and that action will be taken to protect their community and the natural environment.
