Maharashtra Residents Protest Adani Cement Plant Over Health Environmental Concerns

Mohone villagers have raised strong opposition to a proposed cement grinding plant by Adani Group’s Ambuja Cement Ltd, citing environmental and public health concerns. Located near Kalyan, around 68 kilometres from South Mumbai, the densely populated village is witnessing a grassroots movement ahead of a Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) public hearing scheduled for September 16.

The project, planned on 26.13 hectares of land, includes 5.49 hectares for the grinding unit, storage facilities, and packing plant, while 9.67 hectares are proposed as green belt development. Despite this allocation, residents and environmental experts warn that establishing such an industrial facility in a populated area poses significant risks to air quality and local health.

Officials from local villages have initiated a signature campaign and submitted letters to the state government and MPCB, highlighting potential impacts on air and water quality, traffic congestion, and community wellbeing. The movement reflects growing concerns over urban sustainability and the tension between industrial expansion and livable city planning.“The socio-economic study area covers a 10-kilometre radius, including multiple towns and 70 villages, housing over 1.4 million residents,” explained an MPCB official. “It is imperative that all objections are considered during the public hearing to ensure responsible development.”

Experts emphasise that cement grinding plants generate particulate matter and dust emissions, which can exacerbate respiratory conditions, particularly in areas with high population density. Environmental advocacy groups insist that such industries should not be established in densely inhabited regions and urge the adoption of stricter regulatory scrutiny.The controversy follows previous local opposition to large-scale projects in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, underscoring the need for balanced urban planning that prioritises sustainability, zero-carbon objectives, and equitable access to healthy living conditions. Residents argue that alternative sites, away from residential clusters, should be considered to mitigate health and environmental risks.

While the Adani Group has not responded publicly to the concerns, authorities maintain that the public hearing process allows stakeholders to voice objections and influence project decisions. Analysts note that how this debate unfolds may set a precedent for future industrial projects in metropolitan areas, particularly regarding environmental compliance and community consultation.As urban India expands, the Mohone case illustrates the growing friction between industrial growth and eco-friendly, sustainable city planning. Stakeholder engagement, transparent impact assessments, and adherence to green policies remain critical to ensuring that urban development does not compromise human health and environmental integrity.

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Maharashtra Residents Protest Adani Cement Plant Over Health Environmental Concerns