Explosive Corruption: Air Pollution and Alleged Misconduct in Maharashtra

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray criticized the Maharashtra government for a significant rise in air pollution in Mumbai, attributing it to corruption and poorly planned development. He also opposed tree-cutting in Tapovan for Kumbh Mela infrastructure, linking it to exploitative practices under the guise of Hindutva.

The leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), Uddhav Thackeray, condemned the Maharashtra government on Friday over the 'alarming rise' in air pollution in Mumbai. He attributed this environmental degradation to what he described as an 'explosion of corruption' and criticized development plans, claiming they primarily benefit contractors without adequate planning.

At a press conference, Thackeray also questioned the plan to cut trees in Nashik's Tapovan area to make way for a temporary colony of seers for the Kumbh Mela in 2026-27. He expressed concerns over Mumbai's worsening Air Quality Index, prompting local authorities to issue stop-work notices to several construction sites.

Thackeray refuted claims that the volcanic eruption in Ethiopia contributed to Mumbai's pollution, stating it's the result of mismanagement in Maharashtra. He highlighted ongoing development projects, including those in protected regions, as evidence of 'corruption in the name of Hindutva,' asserting his party's opposition to harmful practices, not religious events.

(With inputs from agencies.)