More Garbage Despite Fewer People: Why Pune’s Waste Generation Rises During Diwali
Pune, 11th November 2026: Despite a large number of residents leaving the city during the Diwali holidays, Pune has witnessed a significant increase in daily waste generation during the festive season. Daily waste collection, which normally ranges between 2,700 and 2,800 tonnes, has increased to 3,000-3,100 tonnes between Dussehra and Diwali, adding nearly 300 tonnes to the city’s daily waste load.
The increase is largely attributed to household cleaning and renovation activities undertaken ahead of Diwali, festive shopping and decorations, as well as waste generated from firecrackers. Discarded firecracker papers and other related materials have also contributed to the additional waste.
Although the city witnesses a decline in traffic and crowds at markets and on roads during the Diwali holidays, waste generation continues to rise. Many working professionals, students and families travel to their hometowns during the festive break. However, those staying in Pune undertake extensive household cleaning as part of their Diwali preparations, resulting in the disposal of large quantities of unwanted items.
As part of the annual cleaning exercise, residents clear out unused belongings, old furniture, damaged electronic appliances and other discarded materials accumulated in their homes. Increased purchases during the festive season and discarded decorative items have further added to the waste volume.
According to the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) Solid Waste Management Department, daily waste collection has increased by approximately 200-300 tonnes compared to normal days during the festive period.
“Waste generation generally increases during Dussehra and Diwali. On normal days, the city generates around 2,700-2,800 tonnes of waste daily. However, from Dussehra to Diwali, the quantity rises to 3,000-3,100 tonnes. Despite this increase, sanitation workers are prioritising keeping the city’s roads clean,” said Santosh Warule, head of the PMC’s Solid Waste Management Department.
