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In the notice issued on Oct 23, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) directed Nashik Municipal Corporation to explain why its bank guarantee should not be forfeited and why action, including disconnection of electricity and water supply under environmental laws, should not be initiated. NMC has been given 15 days to submit a written reply with supporting documents. Nashik: Maharashtra Pollution Control Board has issued a show-cause notice to the Nashik civic body after water samples collected from three locations along Godavari river were found to be failing to meet prescribed standards.
MPCB held NMC responsible for ensuring proper collection, treatment and disposal of sewage generated within city limits under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
Laboratory analysis showed the samples had pollutants exceeding prescribed standards, indicating violations of environmental norms, according to the board. When contacted, NMC deputy commissioner (environment) Sangita Nandurkar said the corporation had not yet received the notice. We will be able to comment only after receiving and examining it,” she said.
After examining records and conducting an inquiry, the board concluded that the civic body had failed to fulfil its statutory environmental obligations, leading to pollution of Godavari river. The notice assumes significance amid preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh and growing scrutiny over pollution levels in the river. MPCB warned that it could forfeit the bank guarantee and seek disconnection of electricity and water supply if NMC fails to provide a satisfactory explanation. “We are yet to receive the notice.