The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) on October 09, 2026, under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, has issued guidelines for Container Freight Stations (CFS), Empty Container Yards (ECY) and Truck Parking Areas across Maharashtra to control fugitive dust emissions and protect public health. The guidelines apply to existing and proposed CFS/ECY facilities in areas where the monthly average Air Quality Index exceeds 50, with operators responsible for implementing and maintaining the prescribed measures within their premises and approach areas.
Operators must install peripheral fencing or dust barriers of at least 25 feet, automated tyre/wheel-washing systems at entry and exit points, and develop a green belt using suitable native tree species. Container stacking areas and internal roads must be concreted or provided with durable dust-free surfaces by the prescribed deadlines, while paved operational areas must be mechanically swept at least once every hour during operating hours. Operators must also ensure proper collection, covered storage and environmentally sound disposal of sweeping dust and silt; regularly clean approach roads and parking areas; control vehicle idling and dust generation; and provide adequate sanitation and sewage-treatment arrangements. Each applicable operator must submit two separate bank guarantees of ₹25 lakh each—one for compliance and another for operation and maintenance—valid for five years. MPCB may inspect facilities, impose additional site-specific measures, invoke or forfeit bank guarantees for non-compliance, and initiate action under applicable environmental laws. The guidelines take effect from the date of issuance, subject to the specified compliance timelines.
[Notification No. MPCB/JD(APC)/TB/B-3398166]
