Pune: Concerns Mount as Ready Mix Concrete Projects Choke Wakad, Tathawade And Punawale with Pollution

Wakad, 26th January 2024: The ongoing Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) projects within the limits of the municipal corporation have led to a surge in air pollution in areas such as Wakad, Tathawade, and Punawale. Citizens are distressed due to the deteriorating air quality, raising concerns about public health. In response to the situation, the administration has been urged to take immediate action, with demands coming from construction firms operating in the vicinity.

The State Pollution Control Board has also raised objections regarding this matter. There are ten RMC projects underway in the Marunji area falling under the municipal corporation’s jurisdiction. These projects operate around the clock, generating significant noise from vehicular movement during the night, as well as the operation of heavy machinery within the projects. This has not only contributed to air pollution but also increased noise pollution in the region. Construction activities for residential projects in the vicinity have commenced, resulting in a higher volume of vehicular traffic. Consequently, the area is experiencing elevated levels of dust pollution.

The presence of schools, colleges, and residential areas has compounded the problem, causing distress to students and residents alike. The impact is evident in the deteriorating air quality and increased noise levels. Urgent measures are required to address this issue, and prompt action is needed to curb pollution and safeguard public health.

Local citizens, along with housing society federations, have called for substantial and concrete solutions to address the growing concerns related to air and noise pollution. Immediate steps should be taken to provide pollution-free environments and congestion-free roads, according to the requests made by the residents.

Sachin Londhe, Vice President of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Housing Society Federation, emphasized the need for the municipal administration to be vigilant and proactive regarding health and environmental issues. Residents in areas affected by RMC projects are facing considerable challenges, including both noise and air pollution. The administration is expected to formulate effective plans to mitigate the impact.

Harvinder Bansal, Executive Engineer of the Environmental Department at the municipal corporation, clarified that the RMC projects do not fall under the municipal limits. Complaints about the distress caused to citizens in areas like Wakad and Tathawade due to these projects have been received. Information about the issue has been forwarded to the State Pollution Control Board and the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority for necessary action.