The green belt along the Mula-Mutha river near Sangamwadi is rapidly turning into an unauthorised parking zone, with thousands of truckloads of debris and bricks allegedly dumped in the riverbed. The development has raised serious environmental concerns, and citizens are accusing the civic administration of turning a blind eye.
The stretch between Sangam Bridge and Bund Garden is currently being developed under the Riverfront Improvement Project by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). Citizens claim that many are taking advantage of the ongoing work, and private individuals are encroaching upon the riverbed and using it for parking heavy vehicles, including private buses.
Residents and environmentalists claim that despite repeated complaints, the civic body's patrol teams have failed to act effectively. Allegations have also surfaced that some officials are deliberately ignoring the violations.
Environmental activist Sarang Yadavkar pointed out that clear guidelines regarding riverbed protection were issued by the Water Resources Department in May 2018.
“The PMC itself is carrying out river improvement works, yet illegal dumping and parking continue unchecked. Officials must be held accountable,” he said.
The issue also raises questions about compliance with the directives of the National Green Tribunal. In October 2019, the NGT had ordered the removal of obstructions from the riverbed within a month, and warned that if they fail to do so, a ₹1 crore penalty would be levied for non-compliance. While action was taken at the time, similar encroachments have now resurfaced, indicating a lapse in enforcement. Adding to the concern, some privately owned plots within the flood line are reportedly being misused for parking, despite construction restrictions.
Large-scale dumping has effectively flattened parts of the riverbed, making it easier for such activities to continue. Citizens have demanded immediate intervention, urging authorities to inspect the site and take strict action to restore the river ecosystem. They also questioned the contradiction between the administration’s environmental commitments and the ground reality.
Responding to the issue, Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram said that he would personally inspect the site. “After coordinating with the Water Resources Department, necessary action will be initiated and cases will be registered against those responsible,” he stated.
