Ambad authorities penalize 10 companies over toxic chromium levels

Authorities in Ambad, Nashik, have taken action against more than 10 companies following the discovery of dangerous levels of hexavalent chromium in local groundwater. Testing revealed chromium levels at 50.3 mg/L in tube wells, which is approximately one thousand times higher than the expected limit of 0.05 mg/L.

The contamination has raised significant health concerns for approximately 25,000 residents in the Datta Nagar area. Medical reports indicate that at least 19 residents have already developed skin disorders linked to contact with the discolored, chemical-rich water.

In response to the crisis, the district administration, in coordination with the municipal corporation, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, and local police, has inspected over 50 industries in the Ambad industrial area. Investigations found that several facilities were operating without functional effluent treatment plants (ETP) or were failing to comply with technical environmental regulations. A report on the matter has been submitted to the state administration.