Pune: Sus-Baner Residents to File Contempt Petition Against PMC Over Garbage Plant, Cite Supreme Court Violation
Baner, 1st June 2025: In a major development, residents of Sus Road and Baner, under the banner of Sus Road – Baner Vikas Manch, have decided to file a Contempt Petition in the Supreme Court of India against the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for allegedly violating the apex court’s 2024 directives regarding the controversial Garbage Processing Plant located at S. No. 48 on Sus Road.
The petition, being filed through Advocate Satya Muley, seeks urgent intervention from the court to relocate the garbage plant, which residents claim is operating in blatant violation of environmental norms and judicial directives. The move comes amidst growing public outrage and health concerns.
Protest Sparks Legal Action
On Sunday morning, June 1, around 200 residents braved the rain to gather at the site of the garbage plant and voice their anger. Holding placards and forming a human chain, they alleged that the PMC has shown “complete apathy” despite repeated complaints and representations. The protest included people of all ages—children, women, and senior citizens—who say they are being denied their basic right to breathe clean air.
“The foul smell is unbearable. We have to keep windows and doors shut 24×7. This is no way to live,” said Vijay Deshpande, President of Sus Road – Baner Vikas Manch. “The Supreme Court had given clear orders. Yet, PMC continues to ignore them.”
Supreme Court Orders Ignored, NEERI Audit Pending
Back in September 2024, the Supreme Court had laid down specific conditions for the plant’s operation, including installation of odour control systems, frequent slurry analysis, and site upgrades. Importantly, the Court had mandated that the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) conduct a six-monthly audit of the plant.
“Eight months have passed since the order, but no NEERI audit has been conducted,” said Adv. Satya Muley. “This is a direct violation of the court’s directions. We are left with no option but to seek contempt action.”
Health Hazards and Environmental Risks
Residents report a significant deterioration in health and quality of life. “Many of us suffer from headaches, respiratory issues, and even nausea due to the toxic air,” said Nilima Buwa, a senior citizen from Green Hills Society. “The smell spreads as far as 500–600 meters. The plant is like a gas chamber in a residential zone.”
Adding to their woes, the plant is located adjacent to a Bio-Diversity Park, which activists say is now at risk due to the spread of waste and pollutants.
Children too have raised their voices. Ishaan Bhoite, a resident of Mount Unique Society, said, “We can’t go to play outside because of the smell. Even our parents tell us to wear masks at home.”
Traffic, Garbage Spillage, and Noise Pollution
The issue extends beyond air pollution. Residents allege that garbage trucks driving to the plant often spill waste on the roads, drive recklessly, and cause noise pollution. The plant’s location on a hillock with high wind pressure exacerbates the spread of foul air across the area.
“The claim that this is a zero-odour facility is only on paper,” said Haresh Patil, Secretary of the Vikas Manch. “None of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), or NEERI suggestions have worked. The site is fundamentally unsuitable.”
Residents Ready to Relocate if PMC Doesn’t Act
In a powerful message, residents have said that if PMC insists on operating the plant at the same location, they are willing to relocate—but only if compensated. “We’re not against waste management, but this cannot come at the cost of our health and dignity,” said another protester.
Final Appeal Before Contempt Petition
Adv. Satya Muley emphasized that this petition is not political but a constitutional necessity. “Under Article 21, citizens have the right to life and clean air. The Supreme Court had cautioned PMC and the private operator back in 2024. Yet, compliance is non-existent.”
He added that the contempt petition will be filed in the Supreme Court within the next two weeks, seeking the immediate relocation of the plant and penal action against the authorities for non-compliance.
