Pune: Garbage Crisis Grips Kharadi as PMC Negligence Threatens Residents’ Health Amidst COVID Concerns
Kharadi, 28th December 2023: The Gera Emerald City Road in EON Free Zone, Kharadi, Pune, has become a battleground for residents grappling with a prolonged garbage crisis, raising serious health concerns amidst the ongoing COVID-19 threat. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has come under scrutiny for its failure to address the mounting waste issue, leaving residents exposed to health risks associated with uncollected garbage.
Since November, residents in the affected area have endured the consequences of PMC’s negligence, with overflowing trash becoming a common sight. Despite complaints filed with the PMC and pleas for assistance on social media, the situation has only worsened, pushing residents to the brink of desperation.
The health risks associated with uncollected garbage extend beyond the visual and olfactory discomfort. Diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and cholera can thrive in such environments, posing a direct threat to residents’ well-being. Mosquitoes and flies breeding in the waste become carriers of illnesses through bites.
The decaying organic matter releases harmful chemicals, contributing to air pollution and climate change. Additionally, the presence of rodents and pests attracted to rotting food waste introduces the risk of diseases like leptospirosis and hantavirus.
The absence of proper waste management also raises concerns about water contamination, both surface and groundwater, jeopardizing the safety of water sources. This is especially alarming during the COVID-19 pandemic, where access to clean water is crucial for hygiene and disease prevention.
Uncollected garbage not only compromises public health but also hinders efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing becomes challenging when residents must navigate through heaps of trash in their daily lives.
In response to the crisis, residents have united to demand urgent action from local authorities. Protests and awareness campaigns have been organized, urging the PMC to address the issue promptly. The community awaits a swift and effective response from the municipal corporation, hoping for the restoration of basic civic services.
Until a resolution is reached, the people of Gera Emerald City Road continue to bear the brunt of neglect and inaction. This situation serves as a stark reminder of the indispensable role played by municipal bodies in ensuring public health and safety. The need for prioritizing waste management is evident, emphasizing the importance of clean, safe, and healthy communities for all.
