Sand mining at odd hours on the confluence of Ram – Mula river raises environmental concerns
Akash Dhanurkar
Alert citizens and environmental activists from Pune raised their voice against illegal sand mining at confluence of Ram – Mula river behind Sewage Treatment Plant of Aundh on November 20-21.
Vaishali Patkar and Pushkar Kulkarni were informed about the presence of Poclain machine in the water as the loud noise went across the area while the machines were busy scooping out the sand from the river into two tractor trailers.
Vaishali Patkar accompanied by Pushkar Kulkarni immediately rushed to the spot around 11:45 pm at 20/11/20. But due to extreme darkness they were unable to sight the view. As they again went across the river, near Cremation ground of Pimple Nilakh, the duo spotted a Poclain machine scooping out the sand from the river in full fledge.
The duo immediately informed the Police officials and dialled 100 number helpline. At around 1:00 Pm on 21/11/20, the Chatturshrungi Police rushed to the site and then Pushkar Kulkarni accompanied them to the Poclain machine. Upon seeing them, the Poclain operator, Vijay Kumar Sao, a 22 year old resident of Jharkhand, tried escaping but was caught by the cops. The culprit is arrested by the Sangvi Police Station and the enquiry is underway after Vaishali Patkar and Pushkar Kulkarni filed an F. I. R today afternoon.
Section 371, 9 and 15 of Indian Penal code have been filed against the culprit and other two persons who fled the site.
Talking to Pune Pulse Vaishali Patkar said, “Illegal and excessive sand mining not just alters the river bed, but also changes the course of the river, and thus it leads to regular floods. It also hampers the water bodies ans the habitat. “
Pushkar Kulkarni added, “PCMC, PMC, Irrigation department and the collector office should take care of this and ensure that such things do not happen in future. Now, Flood risk is increased in the areas of Aundh, Baner, Balewadi and Pashan due to scooping of sand from the river basin.”
Vivek Kumutkar, Sangvi Police Sub Inspector, while talking to Pune Pulse said, “Investigation is under way and the culprits will be punished as per the law. “
