The MPCB closure order case has come under scrutiny after RTI disclosures indicated that a plant operated by Shivalay Construction Pvt Ltd in Vaholi allegedly continued functioning despite a closure directive issued by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board. Inspection records reportedly highlighted non-compliance with environmental norms, including missing pollution control systems. Additional allegations have named revenue official Kondiba Kokare in connection with record-keeping irregularities, though no official findings have confirmed wrongdoing. The matter is currently under review in appellate proceedings, and all claims remain subject to investigation and regulatory determination.

MPCB closure order case update: Allegations against Talathi Kondiba Kokare surface as Shivalay Construction plant continues despite directives

RTI disclosures in Kalyan’s Vaholi village raise questions over enforcement lapses, alleged irregularities, and accountability, with alleged corrupt Talathi Kondiba Kokare named in complaints linked to the matter.

The MPCB closure order case involving alleged violations by Shivalay Construction Pvt. Ltd. has gained attention after RTI disclosures highlighted continued operations of a stone crusher and RMC plant.

According to documents reviewed by Sprouts News, the unit located in Vaholi village, Kalyan taluka, was issued a closure direction by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board on May 8, 2024.

Despite the directive, inspection reports and subsequent filings indicate that the plant has allegedly continued operations, raising concerns about regulatory enforcement and administrative oversight within the jurisdiction.

RTI findings highlight regulatory gaps and alleged violations

RTI disclosures obtained by complainant Somnath Mirkute reportedly include inspection reports and compliance checklists submitted by MPCB officials during multiple site visits between 2024 and 2025.

These records allegedly indicate non-compliance with several environmental norms, including the absence of dust control mechanisms, the lack of water sprinkling systems, and the failure to maintain mandatory pollution mitigation infrastructure.

Further, inspection notes dated July 22, 2025, reportedly confirm that operations continued despite the closure order, raising questions regarding monitoring and enforcement mechanisms within the concerned regulatory framework.

To view the case-related document – Click here

Company submissions and compliance undertakings under scrutiny

Documents suggest that during an inspection conducted on March 7, 2024, a company representative of Shivalay Construction Pvt. Ltd. submitted a written undertaking regarding the removal of the plant.

The undertaking reportedly stated that the stone crusher and RMC unit would be dismantled by January 2026, following completion of infrastructure-related work, indicating temporary operational intent acknowledged by the entity.

However, as per records reviewed, the plant allegedly remained operational beyond the stated timeline, thereby raising questions regarding adherence to commitments and the effectiveness of regulatory follow-up actions.

Allegations involving revenue records and Talathi Kondiba Kokare

Separate RTI responses from the local revenue office reportedly indicate that no royalty payments have been recorded for extraction activities at the site since 2022.

In this context, allegations have been raised naming Kondiba Kokare, the concerned talathi, with claims suggesting possible administrative lapses or irregularities in maintaining revenue records.

It is important to note that these allegations remain unverified and no official findings have established culpability, with any determination subject to inquiry by competent authorities.

Also Read: Andheri Redevelopment Dispute: 280 Buyers Affected.

Appellate proceedings and concerns over information disclosure

The matter is currently under consideration in an appellate proceeding before MPCB, with a hearing scheduled on April 28, 2026, at its Kalyan office.

Concerns have also been raised regarding information disclosure by Jayant Hajare, the First Appellate Authority, with allegations of incomplete or partial information being provided in RTI responses.

No formal response from the authority has been placed on record at this stage regarding the nature of disclosures or procedural compliance under RTI provisions.

Escalation to NGT and legal implications under environmental law

Complainant Somnath Mirkute has indicated that, in the absence of enforcement action, the matter may be escalated to the National Green Tribunal, Pune bench, through a public interest litigation.

Legal experts note that continued non-compliance with closure orders may attract action under environmental statutes, including revocation of consent to operate and imposition of penalties under pollution control regulations.

Such cases also raise broader concerns regarding regulatory accountability, environmental governance, and adherence to statutory mandates by both private entities and administrative authorities.

Enforcement and accountability are in focus

The MPCB closure order case continues to evolve as regulatory, legal, and administrative aspects come under scrutiny, with multiple stakeholders awaiting outcomes of the appellate hearing and potential further proceedings.

As developments unfold, the case is expected to test enforcement mechanisms and institutional accountability within environmental governance frameworks, particularly concerning compliance monitoring and the timely execution of statutory orders.

Readers’ Appeal

Unmesh Gujarathi, an investigative journalist, has urged citizens to share credible information related to public interest issues. Readers may connect and provide inputs on 9322755098 to support accountability-driven journalism.

Editorial Note:

This article is based on publicly available FIR records, court case references, and reports published by multiple media organisations. The information is presented in the context of ongoing investigations and public interest reporting. Sprouts News does not make any judicial determination regarding the individuals mentioned and does not intend to defame any person or organisation. Any individual seeking clarification or wishing to provide an official response may contact the editorial team with verifiable documentation. The information is presented for journalistic and informational purposes.