PMC To Crack Down On Private RO Plants Over Contaminated Water Linked To GBS
PMC To Crack Down On Private RO Plants Over Contaminated Water Linked To GBS ( Representative Image)
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to take action against private RO (Reverse Osmosis) water purification plants in Khadakwasla, Kirkitwadi, Nandoshi, and Nanded along Sinhagad Road for operating without proper compliance. Despite clear regulations, several operators have restarted their plants without following PMC’s guidelines, putting public health at risk.
Contaminated Water Linked to GBS Outbreak
Recently, multiple cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) were detected in the Sinhagad Road area, causing widespread panic. Investigations revealed that the disease was linked to contaminated water. Following this, PMC conducted tests on water from private RO plants, confirming contamination and leading to the closure of 30 such plants.
In response, PMC introduced strict regulations for private RO plants, requiring operators to undergo frequent water testing and obtain necessary approvals before resuming operations. However, despite the new rules, only one operator has officially applied for compliance in the last eight days. Meanwhile, others have restarted their plants without following the process, prompting PMC to warn of strict action.
Delays in Enforcement Due to Staff Shortages
Despite the health risk, PMC’s water supply department is struggling to enforce the rules, citing a lack of manpower. Issuing notices to non-compliant operators has been slow, resulting in only paper warnings with no concrete action taken yet.
During a recent PMC water supply department meeting, officials reiterated their stance, stating that plant operators who fail to comply will face further warnings and possible shutdowns. However, concerns remain that PMC’s leniency towards these operators could continue to put citizens at risk.
Notices are being issued to those who fail to comply, and further action will follow.
