Pune’s air quality is facing a sharp decline as unchecked garbage burning grips the city. Residents are reporting increased breathing issues as smog envelops neighbourhoods, exacerbated by winter’s chill. Many workers on night shifts light fires to keep warm, further compounding pollution caused by indiscriminate trash burning. Civic negligence and the absence of an efficient waste collection system have worsened the problem. Shopowners and waste pickers, among others, are habitual offenders, burning refuse daily. Complaints to authorities often go unanswered or delayed, leaving citizens grappling with hazardous air.
The impact of this malpractice is severe, with areas like Hadapsar, Aundh-Baner, and Shivajinagar emerging as chronic pollution hotspots, as revealed by the Pune Air Action Hub survey. The study, shared with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, highlighted the systemic gaps in waste management. Despite penalties as high as ₹5,000 for garbage burning, lax enforcement emboldens offenders. Experts insist that stricter patrolling and community engagement are vital to combat this growing menace.
Addressing the crisis requires a sustainable approach. Implementing a dedicated 24/7 complaint number, deploying rapid-response squads, and promoting waste segregation at source can reduce instances of trash fires. Additionally, mapping chronic hotspots and ensuring regular waste collection are essential steps. Public awareness campaigns on the hazards of garbage burning and training PMC staff can further enhance civic responsibility and efficiency. Adopting sustainable waste management practices, including composting and recycling, will not only curb pollution but also support urban resilience.
The health ramifications are dire, with persistent exposure to pollutants from garbage burning linked to respiratory disorders and cardiovascular risks. The smog-filled air is also affecting daily activities, with residents changing routines to avoid pollution-heavy areas. While some citizens advocate for volunteering to patrol against waste burning, the onus lies with the authorities to lead a consistent, vigilant, and sustainable approach to safeguarding Pune’s air quality.
