Garbage Dumping on Railway Tracks Poses Threat to Train Safety on Pune-Miraj-Kolhapur Line
Pune, 13th December 2024: The Pune-Miraj-Kolhapur railway line, a critical link connecting Mumbai and Pune to the southern regions, is facing serious safety challenges due to rampant garbage dumping on the tracks. Residents living near the railway line between Ghorpadi, Saswad, and Fursungi are reportedly throwing large amounts of garbage onto the tracks, creating dangerous conditions for trains and passengers.
This 10-12 km stretch passing through Pune city has become a hotspot for such irresponsible activities, with specific areas such as Saiyad Nagar, Kale Padal, Ramtekadi, and Ghorpadi Chal being the most affected. According to railway authorities, the accumulation of garbage not only obstructs train operations but also attracts stray animals, which could lead to accidents. Moreover, the risk of fires due to garbage is a significant concern, posing a severe threat to train safety.
“Such hazardous practices endanger the lives of passengers and disrupt the smooth operation of trains. We urge residents to refrain from throwing garbage on the tracks immediately,” a railway official stated.
Authorities have warned that punitive action under the Indian Railways Act will be taken against individuals found dumping garbage on railway tracks. The railway administration has also called on local civic bodies to address the issue and implement measures to curb this practice in the affected areas.
The Pune-Miraj-Kolhapur line serves as a vital corridor for passenger and freight trains, and ensuring its safety is paramount. The railway department has appealed to residents to cooperate and prioritize public safety over convenience.
Efforts are ongoing to create awareness and resolve the issue, but the authorities have emphasized the need for strict action against repeat offenders to prevent any untoward incidents.
