Pune: MPCB Orders Suspension of Electricity and Water Supply to Company Violating Pollution Regulations; Issues Notice to Halt Production

Pune, 10th October 2024: The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has taken strict action against ASK Chemicals Company, located in the Kurkumbh Industrial Area, for violating environmental regulations related to air and water pollution. On Tuesday, 8th October, the MPCB issued a notice ordering the company to cease production.

Complaints about ASK Chemicals Company’s violation of environmental norms were reported to the MPCB. Following these complaints, the board’s sub-regional officers visited the company for an inspection. During the inspection, several regulatory breaches were identified, prompting the board to direct the company to comply with the necessary pollution control norms. However, despite these instructions, the company failed to take corrective action. As a result, the MPCB issued a notice demanding the immediate halt of production.

The MPCB revealed that ASK Chemicals did not follow the rules despite previous warnings. The company had stored raw materials from Melzer Chemical Pvt Ltd on its premises, and this storage continued even after being instructed to move the materials elsewhere. Additionally, ASK Chemicals had allowed Melzer Chemical to store raw materials on 20 acres of its land without obtaining the required permissions from the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) or the MPCB.

Jagannath Salunkhe, Regional Officer of the MPCB, stated that the board had previously granted ASK Chemicals permission to operate until 31st May 2024. However, the company continued production even after this permission expired. The notice specifies that the company must not resume production without further approval. In the event of non-compliance, legal action will be taken. The MPCB has also directed the relevant departments to suspend the company’s electricity and water supply.