Mercedes improved pollution management at Chakan plant after failing checks: Officials

Mercedes-Benz Chakan Plant: Mercedes-Benz has improved wastewater and air pollution management at its only car factory in India after officials detected environment law lapses in recent inspections, government documents show.

Pollution control officials in western state of Maharashtra signed off on Mercedes' compliance with environment norms in an October 11 visit report, reviewed by Reuters.

clearance is a relief for German carmaker, India's top luxury car seller, which announced plans in January to launch over a dozen models and invest $24 million in country this year.

In August, state officials me surprise checks at Mercedes plant in Chakan, Maharashtra, and found company was discharging untreated effluent and emissions, "causing water and air pollution into environment," according to a government notice sent to Mercedes on September 19, which Reuters has reviewed.

notice recorded a total of nine non-compliances by German carmaker, including inequate maintenance of its sewage treatment plant, presence of pollution-causing compounds near its paint booth, and failure to install some required emission control devices.

accusations triggered a political storm in India's richest state as opposition lawmakers said it could damage region's reputation as a major hub for foreign companies.

Industrial pollution is a major concern in India, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state governments have set stringent targets to limit air and water pollution caused by factories and vehicles.

company did not respond to requests for comment on Indian officials noting improvements at its plant. But it told Reuters in a statement this week that it continued to cooperate with officials and h dressed all queries raised.

" company heres to stringent global production quality and is committed to uphold high environmental and sustainability standards, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements," Mercedes said.

state government did not respond to Reuters queries.

government documents said when plant was inspected again in October, officials noted company h improved its management of wastewater treatment plants, and no air pollutants were found being generated during painting.

"Operation & maintenance of ETP (Effluent Treatment Plant) found improved ... maintenance of plant and machinery is carried out," officials noted in report.

Mercedes plant is located 140 km (87 miles) from India's financial capital Mumbai and is close to factories of or automakers like Volkswagen and Mahindra & Mahindra Last year, Mercedes sold a record 17,400 cars in India, beating BMW to second spot.