Kharadi residents push PMC to act against waste dumping & environmental damage

Pune: Residents of Kharadi on Friday held a peaceful protest against routine illegal garbage dumping, burning of waste, riverbed encroachments and destruction of natural water channels.Frustrated by inaction of the civic authorities despite persistently voicing concerns, residents came together to demand immediate and sustained action from the authorities to curb environmental damages due to these illegal activities.They claim that the pollution can potentially trigger serious health issues and raises fears of flooding ahead of the monsoon. For many, the protest was not just an expression of anger, but a call for accountability and long-overdue civic action.The demonstration, led by social activist Prabha Karpe and the Kharadi Residents Welfare (KRW), was held near Survey No. 3/6, close to Nirmala Convent School. Residents said the protest was the culmination of repeated complaints over the past two to three years that have failed to yield concrete results."Our demands are straightforward – clear the dumping sites, restore natural water bodies and prevent further environmental damage," said Akshay Pure, a protester. "This is about safeguarding the health and safety of thousands of residents," he said.A major concern highlighted during the protest was the large-scale dumping of debris in the Mula-Mutha riverbed across survey numbers 16 to 20, 63, 73 and 133 and 134. According to residents, continuous dumping has narrowed the river's natural course, disrupting its flow and significantly increasing the risk of flooding during downpour."The resulting smoke and toxic fumes have severely impacted air quality in nearby housing societies. Breathing issues have become common, especially among children and elderly citizens. The situation worsens at night when the smoke lingers," said social activist Prabha Karpe. She said, natural water bodies and drainage channels are being allegedly being filled with construction debris.Joint municipal commissioner Sanjay Pol said, "We have sent repeated notices to the offenders and now we will take strict action if they are found to repeat the garbage burning or any other offences."The situation on ground, however, has not changed. Ritesh Singh, a protester and resident of Kharadi, said, "At Survey No. 3/6, heaps of garbage and debris are close to a school. It has become a major health hazard. Despite some clean-up work, progress remains slow and insufficient given the scale of the dumping."Concerns were also raised about construction activities in the JJ project area, where natural streams are reportedly being blocked, affecting the area's drainage system.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with EId ul fitr 2026 wishes, messages and quotes !