Villagers In Maharashtra’s Kalyan Oppose Adani Group’s Proposed Cement Plant

Residents of Mohone and nearby villages in Maharashtra’s Kalyan town have voiced strong opposition to a proposed Rs 1,400-crore cement grinding plant by Ambuja Cement Limited, a subsidiary of the Adani Group. The objections came during a public hearing held by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) on Tuesday, 16 September 2025.

Villagers from Mohone, Manda, Atali, and Ambivli expressed deep concerns about the long-term environmental and health impacts of the project, as well as the potential disruption to their livelihoods. They also questioned the legality and transparency of the proposal. “We are opposing the project as it will disturb our livelihoods and harm the environment, creating air and water pollution,” said Ramesh Konar, a 53-year-old teacher from Mohone. “The MPCB should clarify whether they are prepared to approve a project with such adverse effects, rather than allowing Adani representatives to present it.”

The proposed plant is planned on a 26.13-hectare site, with a 5.49-hectare grinding unit and a 9.67-hectare green belt. This project would be the second Adani initiative facing resistance in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, following protests against the Dharavi redevelopment project. The land was formerly part of the National Rayon Company (NRC) and was acquired by the Adani Group in 2020. Initially, the group had plans to develop a logistics park on the site.

Villagers alleged that they only became aware of the cement plant proposal after the MPCB issued a public notice on 14 August, inviting objections and suggestions within a month. “We were not properly informed by local authorities,” said Prabhakar Bhoir, a resident of Manda village and member of the Manda Koliwada Titwala Gramstha. “We were initially told a logistics park would be developed. We would be open to commercial or residential projects, but a cement plant will destroy our environment and livelihoods. They promised 1,500 jobs, but at what cost? There is no scope for negotiation.”

In letters addressed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the Municipal Commissioner of the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC), and the MPCB, villagers raised additional concerns. These included the proximity of the Kalu River (0.1 km) and the Ulhas River (1 km), narrow local roads unable to handle increased traffic, high population density in nearby settlements, and potential damage to rice fields and traditional fishing livelihoods.

“The location is too close to vital water bodies,” said a local farmer. “Pollution from the plant could contaminate the Kalu and Ulhas rivers, which are crucial for our agriculture and fishing.” Villagers also questioned the status of land ownership and pending dues to former NRC workers, demanding clarity during the hearing.

MPCB officials confirmed that all objections and concerns raised during the session had been duly noted. “We will carefully examine the submissions before making any decisions,” said an MPCB representative. The board assured that environmental and social impacts would be thoroughly reviewed.