In a swift operation in Navi Mumbai’s Ulwe area, CIDCO officials, supported by traffic police, successfully seized 14 illegal dumpers caught dumping debris on an open space owned by CIDCO. The operation was carried out after authorities were alerted to the illegal activities on Sunday evening, leading to the confiscation of the vehicles and detention of their drivers.
The dumpers, which were transporting debris such as soil, stones, and broken tiles, had entered Ulwe from Mumbai. The vehicles were heading towards CIDCO’s open land via Atal Setu road when they were intercepted by officers from the Nhava Sheva Traffic Branch. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the drivers intended to dispose of the debris in the area. The material included harmful substances that posed an environmental threat, leading CIDCO officials to act swiftly. Neeraj Mahesh, Assistant Executive Engineer at CIDCO, led the response team, which inspected the dumpers and confirmed the hazardous nature of the materials being transported. Following this, CIDCO’s team, in collaboration with the police, seized all 14 dumpers and detained their drivers for further questioning.
During interrogation, it was revealed that the drivers had been instructed to dispose of the debris by a larger network, believed to be part of an organised “debris mafia.” This led to the initiation of a police investigation aimed at identifying and apprehending those responsible for orchestrating the illegal dumping operations. A case has been filed against the drivers at Ulwe Police Station under sections 271 (driving without a valid permit) and 62 (disposing of hazardous waste). CIDCO has pledged to continue its crackdown on illegal dumping in the area, with increased vigilance to prevent environmental damage and maintain public spaces.
