The Omaxe Group has been fined ₹1.71 crore by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) for persistently breaking environmental restrictions at their housing project in Jharmari village, Dera Bassi. This action follows a previous halt issued by the PPCB in April due to similar infractions.
The Omaxe Greens housing project, which consists of 650 flats—approximately 550 of which are already occupied—was found to be operating without a functional sewage treatment plant (STP). During a recent inspection, the PPCB noted that the project was discharging sewage effluents into nearby fields and drains along the national highway, failing to implement solid waste management measures, and neglecting the area from wild growth that poses health risks and contributes to environmental pollution.
A report from the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) confirmed various anomalies concerning pollution control norms. The housing project was previously granted conditional consent to operate, but the PPCB found it was not adhering to these conditions.
In response to the fine, Dalip Moudgil, an advisor to the Omaxe Group, stated that they had not yet received the official order. He emphasized that the group had complied with the environmental clearance conditions and the PPCB norms. Moudgil mentioned plans to submit a representation for reconsideration of the fine once the order is received.
A grievance was made to the PPCB by the residents’ welfare association of the development back in September 2021 and there were additional apprehensions articulated by the National Highway Authority of India regarding illegal connections to sewers. The National Green Tribunal has also registered its displeasure about the persistent wrangles roiling the project.
