In a decisive move against escalating river pollution, the Environmental Engineering Department of the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has taken substantial action to address environmental concerns in the Pavana, Indrayani, and Mula rivers flowing through Pimpri city. The department seized seven vehicles, including six trucks and a tempo, responsible for illegal dumping of dirt and mud into the riverbeds. A fine totaling Rs 65,000 has been collected from the owners of these vehicles.
The river basins in Pimpri, particularly those of Pavana, Indrayani, and Mula, have witnessed a surge in pollution levels due to unauthorized dumping of earth and dirt. The problem is further exacerbated by instances of illegal construction and makeshift structures along the riverbanks. Despite previous complaints, the PCMC’s response has been sluggish, resulting in the continued deterioration of the river ecosystems.
Prompted by complaints from concerned citizens, the Regional Office of PCMC, in collaboration with the Environmental Engineering Department, conducted thorough inspections and took stringent action against those violating environmental regulations. The affected areas encompass Morya Park, Krishnaraj Colony, Amrita Colony, Bhau Nagar, Muktangan Lawns, Deokar Park, and Shivneri Colony in Pimple Gurav.
The seized vehicles, owned by individuals such as Nitin Darshile, Damodar Talimatty, Nagnath Manjule, and Lakappa Pujari, were impounded by PCMC. The fines collected, amounting to Rs 65,000, underscore the municipality’s commitment to deterring illegal dumping practices. The operation was executed by Health Inspector Amol Gorkhe and Multipurpose Worker Gorakshnath Karpe, under the guidance of Sanjay Kulkarni, Joint City Engineer (Environment), with the assistance of the environmental team and MSF personnel.
Environmental activists and vigilant citizens are now advocating for sustained and permanent measures against individuals contributing to river pollution. They stress the importance of stringent regulations and consistent enforcement to safeguard the health of the rivers and their surrounding ecosystems.
