PMC, MPCB, Collector Told To Submit Responses Over Dumping Of Debris On Riverside By September 11 By NGT

The National Green Tribunal’s principal bench in New Delhi has taken serious note of the dumping of construction and demolition (C&D) waste along river stretches in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Directing responses from key authorities by September 11, including the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), and Pune district collector, the tribunal aims to address environmental concerns raised in a suo motu proceeding.

The tribunal’s western zonal bench in Pune will commence hearings from September 11 following the directive. This action follows an article highlighting extensive dumping of debris, particularly along the Bopodi river stretch. The bench, comprising Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi, Justice Prakash Shrivastava, and expert member A. Senthil Vel, noted the serious implications of such dumping, linking it to increased flood risks in residential areas. “The issue pertains to the unchecked dumping of C&D waste, not only along rivers like Ramnadi and Pawana but also in city areas,” stated the bench, emphasizing the roles of builders and farmers in urban and rural dumping respectively. 

Critically, the tribunal highlighted PMC’s lack of a structured waste collection system at the ward level, exacerbating the problem.

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“The PMC’s failure to manage C&D waste effectively, coupled with inadequate waste processing facilities such as the one in Wagholi, poses significant challenges,” the bench added, highlighting the inconvenience faced by builders and residents in utilizing distant disposal centers.

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With deadlines looming for responses, stakeholders are poised to address these critical environmental concerns impacting Pune’s water bodies and urban spaces. The tribunal’s intervention seeks to ensure accountability and sustainable waste management practices to safeguard the city’s environment.

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