Despite last year’s devastating floods in the Sinhagad Road area, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) appears not to have learned its lesson. Citizens have raised concerns about continued debris dumping in the riverbed, particularly in the Vitthalwadi area, which could lead to future flooding.
Prakash Guje, a local resident, claimed that open spaces near the river are being used for dumping construction debris, and this is going unchecked by PMC authorities. He emphasised that if immediate action is not taken, another disaster is inevitable.
"Last year’s floods, caused by heavy rains on July 24, displaced thousands of people and resulted in significant loss of life and property. A PMC committee investigation revealed that the floods were exacerbated by the heavy dumping of debris and encroachments near the Mutha riverbed. Despite these findings, illegal dumping continues. Private builders allegedly dump their waste on riverbanks and open spaces late at night to avoid paying fees to the PMC," he alleged.
A PMC official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, mentioned that the administration has designated a site for debris disposal near Kothrud. However, enforcement by the PMC remains weak. A recent crackdown by the Sinhagad regional ward office resulted in a fine of ₹20,000 imposed on a tractor driver caught dumping waste. Yet, the administration continues to fall short in addressing large-scale violations.
Citizens are urging the PMC to take decisive action against illegal dumping and prevent future floods in the city. The ongoing negligence threatens the safety of thousands of residents living in the Sinhagad Road area.
