Pune: Punawale Residents Oppose Solid Waste Project By PCMC, MNS President Raj Thackeray Promises Help

Varad Bhatkhande

Punawale, 29th October 2023: Residents of Punawale have voiced their apprehensions about the decision taken by the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) regarding the construction of a solid waste management project in Punawale. During Maharashtra Navnirman Sena President Raj Thackeray’s visit to Pune, they expressed their concerns outside the Rajmahal office.

Punawale has witnessed significant urbanization, with more than 100,000 citizens currently residing in the area, attracted by the proximity to the Hinjawadi IT Park. However, the impending solid waste management project has raised concerns, as it is situated very close to residential societies, merely 200 to 400 meters away.

Back in 2008, when the solid waste management project was approved, the area was less urbanized. Since then, numerous housing projects, educational institutions, and hospitals have been established, making the project’s impact potentially severe.

The proposed project’s proximity to a forest threatens the loss of natural beauty and potential damage to the environment. Additionally, residents fear polluted water due to nearby water irrigation.

The project’s location in the western direction, coupled with prevailing winds from west to east, raises concerns about affecting already developed areas such as Wakad, Tathawade, Hinjawadi IT Park, Marunji, and the Mumbai Pune Highway, along with Punawale.

The PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh aims to commence the solid waste management project by December 2023, involving the felling of numerous trees in the Punawale Kate Wasti forest spread across 22 hectares, further contributing to environmental concerns.

In light of these issues, residents of Punawale and its surroundings seek the cancellation of the solid waste management project, emphasizing the safety and well-being of all citizens. They express hope that MNS, under the guidance of Raj Thackeray, will consider these concerns regarding city planning and urbanization.

Raj Thackeray has assured that a decision will be reached in the next two to three days. During his visit, several Punawale citizens and MNS representatives were present, demonstrating their collective concerns and hopes for a resolution.