In October, an Indian state announced that Mercedes-Benz has enhanced its management of wastewater and air pollution at its sole car factory in the country. This improvement followed the discovery of lapses in environmental laws during recent inspections, according to government documents.
Pollution control officials in Maharashtra, a western state, confirmed Mercedes’ compliance with environmental regulations after their visit on October 11. They reviewed the findings in a report obtained by Reuters.
The German carmaker, which is India’s leading luxury car seller, received a relief with the recent clearance. In January, the company announced its plans to launch over a dozen models and invest $24 million in India this year.
In August, state officials conducted surprise checks at the Mercedes plant in Chakan, Maharashtra. They discovered that the company was discharging untreated effluent and emissions, which resulted in pollution of water and air. This information comes from a government notice sent to Mercedes on September 19, which Reuters has reviewed.
The notice listed nine non-compliance issues involving the German car manufacturer. These included poor maintenance of its sewage treatment plant, the presence of pollution-causing compounds near its paint booth, and the failure to install certain required emission control devices.
The accusations sparked a political uproar in India’s richest state. Opposition lawmakers argued that these issues could harm the region’s reputation as a major hub for foreign companies.
Industrial pollution poses a significant problem in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state governments have established strict targets to reduce air and water pollution from factories and vehicles.
In a private letter to pollution control officials dated September 26, which Reuters has obtained, Mercedes stated that there were no non-compliances at their plant, as alleged. They also claimed that the plant was not causing harm to the environment.
Mercedes has not previously reported its response to the state government or details of the inspectors’ visit on October 11. The company did not reply to requests for comments about Indian officials acknowledging improvements at its plant. However, in a statement to Reuters this week, it confirmed that it continues to cooperate with officials and has addressed all raised queries.
The state government did not respond to inquiries from Reuters. According to government documents, the plant was inspected again in October, and officials observed improvements in the management of wastewater treatment facilities.
They also found no air pollutants generated during the painting process. The report noted, “Operation & maintenance of ETP (Effluent Treatment Plant) found improved…maintenance of plant and machinery is carried out.”
The Mercedes plant is situated 140 km (87 miles) from Mumbai, India’s financial capital. It is adjacent to factories of other automakers, including Volkswagen and Mahindra & Mahindra. Last year, Mercedes achieved a record sale of 17,400 cars in India, surpassing BMW, which fell to second place.
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