A wave of controversy has engulfed the recently inaugurated Pune Airport terminal, just a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s virtual unveiling of the state-of-the-art facility. A viral video circulating on social media platforms depicts a disheartening scene of food packets strewn across the premises, prompting widespread condemnation and raising questions about civic responsibility.
The video, initially shared on Reddit’s r/Indiaspeaks community, quickly gained traction, drawing attention to the alleged aftermath of the inauguration ceremony. Attendees purportedly discarded the food packets they received during the high-profile event, tarnishing the pristine surroundings of the new terminal building. Notable dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar, and other government officials, were present during the inauguration.
The Reddit post, captioned “Attendees litter Pune Airport with food packets provided during inauguration of new building,” ignited a firestorm of criticism online. Netizens expressed disappointment and dismay over the lack of respect for the environment, emphasizing the need for responsible waste disposal practices. Many raised concerns about the absence of visible trash cans in the vicinity, highlighting a potential contributing factor to the littering incident.
Discussions stemming from the viral video have delved into broader issues surrounding cultural attitudes towards littering and the efficacy of infrastructure in curbing such behavior. Calls for heightened awareness campaigns and stringent enforcement of anti-littering regulations have echoed across social media platforms, underscoring the importance of fostering a collective sense of environmental stewardship.
Meanwhile, the newly inaugurated terminal, boasting an impressive expanse of 51,595 square meters and a robust passenger handling capacity of 9 million per annum, represents a significant infrastructural milestone for Pune Airport. Constructed at a cost of Rs 423 crore, the expansion project aims to enhance operational efficiency and accommodate the burgeoning air travel demands of the region.
Despite the glitzy inauguration ceremony, operational activities at the new terminal are slated to commence in four to five weeks. Multiple national and international agencies are conducting comprehensive tests to ensure the seamless functioning of critical systems before opening the facility to the public. As stakeholders strive to address the fallout from the littering incident, the focus remains on upholding the integrity and cleanliness of Pune Airport’s newly minted infrastructure.
