Pune: HC Rejects Plea to Shift Hadapsar Waste Unit, Orders PMC & PCB to Improve Scientific Processing
Pune: HC Rejects Plea to Shift Hadapsar Waste Unit, Orders PMC & PCB to Improve Scientific Processing
Pune, August 7, 2025: The Bombay High Court has dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the relocation of the solid waste processing unit from the Hadapsar Industrial Estate. Instead, the court directed the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) to enhance scientific waste processing at the site while strictly adhering to the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep V Marne emphasised that mixed solid waste must not be dumped at the 28-acre facility. Instead, waste should be scientifically segregated and managed through composting, recycling, and reuse, with non-biodegradable waste directed to authorised landfills.
To address environmental and health concerns of nearby residents, the bench also ordered the use of modern technology to control odours, toxic gases, dust, and other pollutants. “Controlling odorous gas and dust from waste processing facilities is crucial for both the environment and public health,” the court stated.
The court’s ruling marks a conclusion to long-standing demands from residents of Sopan Baug and St. Patrick’s Town, along with the Hadapsar Industrial Association, who had sought the facility’s relocation due to health risks and foul odours.
The court, however, observed that the operation of the facility complies with the SWM Rules and a 2008 order from the Urban Development Department. It expressed disapproval of repeated legal efforts to shut down or shift the plant, stating that the petitions lacked constructive suggestions for better waste management.
The court noted PMC’s current and proposed measures, including high jet spraying every three hours, covering the compost plant, installing fogging and misting systems, chemical sprinklers, and increasing the compound wall height from 12ft to 16ft. The HC directed both PMC and PCB to implement these steps and coordinate further improvements.
Additionally, the court advised that if additional land is required, PMC and PCB should approach the state government with a formal request. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has also been directed to monitor and act against any SWM violations by civic agencies or their contractors.
The decision may pave the way for PMC to pursue its long-term goal of decentralised waste processing, aimed at reducing the logistical load on the Uruli Devachi facility.
