Dow Chem's R&D Centre work stops in Pune

Pune: The Maharashtra Government has issued orders to stop construction work for a month on research and development centre being set up by Dow Chemicals International near Chakan.

In a decision that comes in the wake of stiff opposition to the R&D Centre at Shinde Vasuli from villagers in the region, a committee headed by a retired High Court judge is being appointed to look into the issues involved.

The committee will submit its report in a month’s time, following which a decision will be taken on the matter by the State Government.

The construction of the centre, being set up with an investment of Rs 400 crore on 100 acres leased to the company by MIDC, began in January.

However, there have been several instances of protests by villagers who fear that hazardous chemicals will be produced here and lead to pollution of water bodies and soil in the region.