Illegal Debris Dumping in Pune: Contractors Face Fines, Blacklisting, and Permit Cancellation

Pune, 25th December 2024: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced strict measures against construction professionals and contractors illegally dumping debris in rivers, drains, and public spaces. Additional Municipal Commissioner Prithviraj BP has issued orders to immediately halt construction on sites found violating these regulations, revoke contractors’ licenses, and seize vehicles involved in debris dumping.

The move comes in response to repeated violations despite earlier warnings. A specialized team has been formed at each zonal office to monitor and enforce these directives.

Addressing a Growing Issue
Construction debris, including soil, stones, cement fragments, and brick dust, is being dumped in riverbeds and drains across Pune. Such activities have led to artificial land creation, narrowing water channels, and contributing to flooding during heavy rains.

In July 2024, heavy rainfall caused severe flooding in the Mutha River area, prompting the formation of a committee by Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale. The committee’s report highlighted how riverbed encroachments and blockages exacerbated the flood situation. Acting on the recommendations, the administration has now intensified efforts to tackle the issue.

Actions to be Taken
According to the new orders, immediate and strict action will be enforced against violators:

Seizure of vehicles involved in dumping debris.
Imposition of fines under the Bye-laws of 2017, Section 52 of the MRTP Act, Solid Waste Management Rules 2016, and the Environment Act.
Cancellation of construction permits for properties responsible for illegal dumping.
Blacklisting and deregistration of contractors or individuals involved in the violations.
Filing of legal cases against offenders.
Additional Commissioner Prithviraj BP emphasized in the circular that non-compliance with these rules will not be tolerated.

Patrol Squad for Enforcement
To ensure effective implementation, a patrol squad has been established, comprising:

Assistant Commissioner of the respective ward office.
Construction Inspector.
Divisional Health Inspector from the Solid Waste Management Department.
Health Inspector.
This team will operate under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of the respective zone. They are required to submit action reports every 15 days. The circular also warned that if the squad fails to act against violators, disciplinary action will be initiated against its members.

पुणे: राडारोडा टाकल्यास बांधकाम परवानगी रद्द करा – अतिरिक्त आयुक्तांनी काढले आदेश

Immediate Implementation
The administration has directed regional offices to provide staff support for the patrol squads. These measures aim to curb debris dumping and prevent further environmental and civic damage, ensuring stricter accountability from contractors and construction site operators.