Pune, India – Despite concerted efforts by environmental authorities, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) continues to grapple with the rampant usage of single-use plastic, exacerbating the city’s air and water pollution woes.
In a recent joint meeting convened by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and PMC to address the escalating pollution concerns, stringent measures were underscored to reign in violators and enforce pollution control norms effectively. Key agenda items during the meeting included absolute adherence to solid waste management regulations, treatment of domestic effluents, curbing single-use plastic usage, and mitigating air pollution. However, despite directives from the MPCB to impose strict penalties on offenders, the PMC’s enforcement efforts have been hindered by logistical challenges, particularly the deployment of staff for election duties. Data revealed that between April 23 to 26, amidst the election period, the PMC managed to collect a meagre fine of Rs. 3,95,000 from single-use plastic violators, with only 894 individuals fined and 372 kg of plastic seized. The highest fine collection of Rs. 50,000 was reported from the Sahakar Nagar – Dhankawadi ward office, while the Ghole Road – Shivajinagar ward office recorded the maximum number of violators at 238.
Explaining the operational constraints, Sandip Kadam, head of the PMC’s environmental department, cited the diversion of resources towards election duties, impeding the department’s ability to enforce regulations citywide. The PMC had previously launched a specialised surveillance vehicle squad in January to combat open garbage dumping, but these resources have now been redirected for election-related tasks, further impeding pollution control efforts. The persistence of single-use plastic usage and associated pollution underscores the urgent need for enhanced regulatory measures and proactive enforcement by the PMC. With pollution levels on the rise, concerted action is imperative to safeguard Pune’s environmental sustainability and the well-being of its residents. As the city navigates these challenges, collaboration between civic authorities and community stakeholders will be crucial in driving meaningful change and fostering a cleaner, healthier environment for all.
