Archive · 19 May 2025
Matheran Hill Station Faces Environmental Degradation Due to Horse Activity
Matheran, a hill station, is facing environmental problems because of horses used for tourism.
An assessment showed the air has too much pollution, like dust, which is unhealthy.
Water is also dirty, with unsafe levels of bacteria and chemicals.
The soil is getting damaged, too.
The report suggests limiting the number of horses and improving waste management to protect the environment and make the area safe and healthy.
An interim report by the MPCB highlights environmental degradation in Matheran due to tourism-related horse activity.
Air quality analysis reveals PM10 and PM2.5 levels exceeding CPCB standards in multiple locations.
Water sources show severe contamination with high levels of turbidity, E. coli, nitrates, phosphates, and heavy metals.
Soil health is degrading, particularly in areas with high horse traffic due to high carbon content.
The report suggests limiting horse movement to less than 300 per day and detailed waste management.
- Who
- An expert team from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Technological University and Nagesh Karajagi Orchid College of Engineering and Technology conducted the assessment.
- What
- A report highlighting air, water, and soil pollution in Matheran caused by horse-related activities.
- When
- The report was submitted in April to the National Green Tribunal.
- Where
- Matheran hill station.
- Why
- To assess environmental damage and suggest recuperation methods due to excessive horse use for tourism and goods transportation.
- PM10 Levels (Dasturi Naka)
- 144.41 µg/m³ (CPCB standard is 100 µg/m³)
- PM2.5 Levels (Dasturi Naka)
- 76 µg/m³ (CPCB standard is 60 µg/m³)
- Soil Carbon Content
- 2.35% in areas with decomposing horse dung.
- Lead Concentration (Water)
- 0.15 mg/L & 0.08 mg/L (Permissible limit: 0.01 mg/L)
- E. coli (Water)
- 100 cfu/mL (indicates contamination)
- Turbidity (Water)
- 550 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) - High
