Residents of a premium residential society in Noida’s Sector 104 have raised serious concerns over persistent foul smell and noise pollution allegedly coming from a nearby sewage treatment plant (STP). The affected residents, mainly from towers of ATS One Hamlet, say the situation has worsened in recent weeks, impacting their daily lives.
The matter has now reached the Chief Minister’s office, with residents demanding urgent intervention.
Allegations of Untreated Wastewater Discharge
According to the Apartment Owners’ Association (AOA), the STP—located within the premises of Maharshi Mahesh Yogi Ashram Trust—is allegedly releasing untreated or partially treated wastewater into open areas.
Residents claim:
●Wastewater appears black, frothy, and foul-smelling
●Water flows into green belts and forms stagnant pools
●Strong odour spreads across nearby residential towers
The AOA has demanded a detailed inspection and immediate corrective action from authorities.
Noise Pollution Adding to Residents’ Woes
Apart from the stench, residents have also flagged continuous noise pollution caused by heavy machinery at the STP.
Key concerns include:
●Large motors running 24/7 without soundproofing
●Disturbance in sleep, especially at night
●Reduced quality of life for families living nearby
Residents say repeated complaints to the ashram management have not led to any resolution.
Ashram Management Denies Allegations
Responding to the complaints, the ashram authorities have denied any wrongdoing, stating that:
●The STP releases only treated wastewater
●There is no environmental hazard from the plant
●The issue arose after closure of an old drainage system, leaving no outlet for treated water
Officials also clarified that reuse of treated water is difficult because their agricultural land is located far from the site.
Long-Running Dispute Between Residents & Ashram
This is not the first time tensions have surfaced between the two sides. In 2024, residents had approached the National Green Tribunal (NGT) over:
●Alleged illegal tree cutting
●Construction in a designated green belt
The ashram had denied those allegations as well, and the matter remains under consideration.
What Lies Ahead
The latest complaint has intensified calls for:
●Environmental compliance checks
●Proper wastewater treatment and disposal
●Noise control measures at the STP
Authorities are now expected to investigate and determine whether pollution norms are being violated.
