However, the authorities have still not succeeded in keeping Mithi pollution-free
After the deluge of July 2005, government authorities released a plan involving a cost of Rs 1,600 crore to clean and widen the Mithi river, which is a crucial storm water drain in Mumbai. However, the authorities have still not succeeded in keeping Mithi pollution-free.
Recently, it was brought to the notice of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) that a factory run by Ashoka Ready Mix Company (RMC) in Saki Naka is emitting its industrial waste into the river, creating a thick layer of cement wash. On July 10, the BMC had even terminated the work permit of Ashoka RMC, but the company is still operating, confirmed Assistant Municipal Commissioner, Ajitkumar Ambi.
Residents claim there are two cement companies in Saki Naka emitting waste into the river, but civic official say they have received complaint of only one such company.
The Mithi river originates from Powai and traverses through various industrial complexes of Powai, Saki Naka, Kurla and Mahim. The Ashoka RMC factory is located on Lathia Road opposite Mahavir Industrial Estate in Saki Naka.
"The two companies continuously emit waste of cement wash and sewage into the gutter which directly connects to the Mithi river. The river is hardly 60 to 70 feet away from the ready mix factories", said a resident of Saki Naka who has approached the BMC. The waste saturated is not only polluting the river but also blocks the rain water flow, the resident claimed. The huge amount BMC is spending on cleaning the river goes to waste, he added.
Ambi told DNA that,"We have given notice to Ashoka RMC last month and on July 10 we also revoked the work permit of the company. But the company is still operational. We are now taking legal advice for what further actions can be taken to shut the company".
"Meanwhile, we have also informed the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) about the company polluting the river and MPCB will take action under the Environment Act", Ambi added.
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