Taking a bold stance against environmental violations, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has launched a robust crackdown on builders, waste burners, and air polluters flouting air pollution control regulations. In a remarkable display of proactive enforcement, the PCMC has collected fines exceeding Rs 30 lakhs within just three days.
The Environment Department and Water Supply Department responded to reports of foul-smelling water in the Pawana River near Kejudevi Embankment, Thergaon. A subsequent survey in the Tathawade area revealed that M/s Klenfab Services L. L. P., a local dry cleaning company, was discharging chemically contaminated water directly into the Pavana River without proper treatment. The water displayed dark, bluish, and frothy characteristics, leading to the registration of a case against the company’s owner at the Wakad police station for endangering aquatic and human life through river water contamination.
Aligned with the Swachha Bharat Abhiyan, the PCMC has launched a ‘Swachha Diwali-Shubh Diwali’ campaign, including a reel competition to promote an eco-friendly and pollution-free Diwali celebration. Citizens are urged to use plastic responsibly, avoid pollution, and embrace eco-friendly local products. The campaign encourages the creation of sustainable items from waste, such as flower rangoli. Participants can showcase their efforts by posting a 30-second video or reel on social media, using the hashtag #SwachhDiwali, and tagging the official handles @sbmurbangov and @pcmcindiagovin. Thirty prizes, collectively worth Rs. 22 thousand, will be awarded to the winners.
Sanjay Kulkarni, Associate City Engineer of the Environment Department, emphasized, “Various places are being inspected by the Air Pollution Control Team. Legal action is being taken against those who do not implement the guidelines to prevent air pollution.”
