Pune civic body files only three against people for burning garbage in June

Time of India

17 hours ago

Pune: The civic administration has filed only three cases against people for burning garbage in June and levied a fine of Rs 15,000.
Environmentalists claimed that Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is not focusing on solving the garbage burning issue.
Many residents have observed the burning of dry garbage, garden waste, plastic bags, and tyres across the city.
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"Even old damaged clothes and mattresses are set on fire as disposing of them is a tough task. It not only leads to pollution but also increases the probability of health hazards. A dedicated team to deal with the issue is a must," an environmentalist said on condition of anonymity. Civic officials said ward-wise teams have been formed to find the offenders.
"The number of offences has gone down due to awareness and previous action," a civic official said.
The
National Green Tribunal
's (NGT) western zonal bench in the city last week questioned the PMC over its action against burning. It directed PMC to submit a detailed response within two weeks on this matter. The civic administration in 2024 filed over 550 cases of burning trash. It found that unidentified people or beggars were involved in such cases.
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"Most garbage burning takes place near nullahs or riverbanks. The administration must focus on these areas. Dedicated drives should be held at these spots," said Bharati Ranade, a resident of Shivajinagar.
Burning of garbage on the riverbank in Kalyaninagar has become a regular feature, locals said.
"Massive plumes of smoke are seen regularly, causing respiratory issues in nearby residents. We are unable to figure out tangible preventative measures to this recurring problem," said Drayson Dixon, a member of Team Swachh, Kalyaninagar.
Residents of the area plan to approach Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to highlight the regular violation of environmental norms.
"Garbage at open places is burned late at night or early morning hours to avoid action. The civic body should conduct drives during these periods to catch offenders," said Gauri Kulkarni, a resident of Kothrud.
Civic activists said PMC should display seriousness in dealing with the issues pertaining to air pollution.
"Air quality in the city is very poor due to pollution. The number of vehicles has gone up drastically in the last few years. Burning of garbage is adding to the problem," said Vaishali Patkar, an environmentalist.
As per civic officials, action is being taken under special solid waste management guidelines, which PMC approved in 2016. These guidelines describe a number of offences, including garbage burning, open defecation, not segregating wet and dry garbage, throwing trash in public places, and not handing over the garbage to wastepickers.
Along with the regular action, PMC carries out drives to catch the offenders during festive periods.
The fine amount ranges from Rs 200 to Rs 5,000 per offence.
"PMC's solid waste management department checks chronic spots regularly. Squads have been formed to keep checks on these locations and they levy fines based on offences. Staff have been assigned even for cleaning during nighttime," said Sandip Kadam, head of PMC's solid waste management department.