Residents from various parts of Pune have expressed serious concerns over recurring incidents of open garbage burning in their neighborhoods, urging the civic body to enhance surveillance and take stringent action against violators.
PMC Reports Only One Case in May
Officially, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) documented just a single case of illegal garbage burning in May 2026. This incident occurred in the Aundh-Baner ward, where a fine of Rs 5,000 was imposed. None of the other 14 wards reported any such cases during the same period, despite widespread reports from residents indicating otherwise.
Residents Highlight Ongoing Issues
In Khadki, residents pointed out that garbage dumped along the Mula river is frequently set on fire during early morning and late evening hours. Vivek Sathe, a local resident who walks there daily, stated that the PMC has failed to take immediate action. “Last week, dry waste along the river was burned on two consecutive days. The PMC did nothing. The involvement of civic staff in this practice needs investigation,” he said.
Atul Punde, a resident of Deccan Gymkhana, noted that even repeated warnings from the PMC do not deter offenders. “Surveillance must be increased at vulnerable spots. Burning garbage causes pollution and health problems. Officials should also check if these incidents are rising due to delayed monsoon,” he added.
Activist Blames PMC’s Waste Management
Civic activist Pramod Shinde from Wadgaon argued that such burning reflects the PMC’s failure in waste collection and disposal. “Dry or garden waste is often set on fire because the administration lacks an effective processing mechanism. People dump trash in open areas, and if not collected, it gets burned,” he explained.
PMC’s Record and Assurance
The PMC’s overall record against waste burning remains poor. In April 2026, eight cases were recorded, and in March, action was taken against 16 offenders. An official from the solid waste management department assured that measures would be intensified. “Our squads are monitoring the situation. We will ask them to improve vigilance and take on-the-spot action against illegal burning or dumping,” the official said.
