Pune: MPCB Orders Halt to Garbage Dumping in Punawale Amid Rising Complaints
Reported by Nupur Joshi
Punawale, 29th April 2026: Residents of Punawale have raised serious concerns over an alleged illegal garbage dumping site near the Punawale–Marunje border, warning of potential health and environmental risks if immediate action is not taken.
According to the Punawale Residents Forum, the dumping is taking place close to a site where an oxygen park is currently being developed. The location was earlier proposed for a garbage depot, but the plan was shelved following strong public opposition. The government later approved the oxygen park project. Residents now claim that waste is being dumped at a nearby spot within visible distance of the proposed park.
Sumit Dhage, a member of the forum, alleged that trucks have been regularly dumping waste throughout the day. “We are also noticing smoke from the site, indicating that garbage is being burnt. If not stopped immediately, this could turn into a full-fledged illegal dumping ground,” he said.
Residents have expressed concern that prevailing west-to-east winds could carry smoke and foul odour towards residential areas such as Punawale, Tathawade and Wakad. With the monsoon approaching, they fear increased health risks and possible contamination of water sources.
The forum has submitted a complaint to the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), citing open dumping, burning of waste and violations of solid waste management rules. Residents have demanded immediate removal of garbage, complete cleaning of the site and strict preventive measures.
In a key development, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has directed the Marunje gram panchayat to halt garbage dumping at the site. However, residents have raised concerns about enforcement. “Issuing orders is one thing, but ensuring implementation on the ground will require strict monitoring,” Dhage said.
The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) conducted an initial inspection, but officials stated that the land falls under PMRDA jurisdiction. Although notices have reportedly been issued, residents claim that no significant action has been taken so far.
Residents have urged authorities to act swiftly, expressing hope that the MPCB directive will lead to an end to the dumping and prevent further environmental damage.
