Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar Orders Action If Blasting Norms Violated At Dahisar East Transport Hub Project

Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar has ordered authorities to take decisive action against contractors if they are found to have violated blasting norms during the construction of the Dahisar East Transport Hub. The directive came during a meeting at Mantralaya where concerns were raised about the impact of blasting on buildings, noise pollution, dust, traffic congestion, and other inconveniences faced by residents.

BMC officials informed the meeting that blasting vibrations had been assessed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and that controlled blasting was being conducted in line with IIT's recommendations. However, Shelar insisted that authorities verify whether prescribed timings, safety norms, and other conditions had been adhered to during previous blasting operations. If violations are confirmed, the contractor responsible should face appropriate penal action.

Shelar also directed officials to assess the feasibility of employing safer and more advanced blasting technologies for the project. In response to complaints of structural damage to nearby buildings, Shelar ordered experts to conduct a structural audit on affected structures. If the audit establishes that blasting caused the damage, compensation should be provided to affected residents.

Additionally, Shelar ordered the Mumbai Suburban District Collector and the BMC to conduct an inquiry into mineral and minor mineral transportation generated by the project, ensuring all required permissions, royalty payments, and standard operating procedures are followed. A report on the inquiry is pending.

Within 15 days, Shelar directed the project engineer and the Police Department to hold a public hearing with local residents to address complaints about traffic congestion, dust, foul odour, noise pollution, and challenges caused by vehicle movement in the area. A report from the hearing must be submitted to the authorities.

Shelar emphasized that while development works are necessary, no compromise on citizens' safety will be tolerated. If rules are violated, strict action must be taken against those responsible, and citizens' grievances must be resolved promptly.