Stormy Session in Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation Over Environmental and Civic Crises
The inaugural general body meeting of the newly elected Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation descended into chaos and heated exchanges, highlighting deep-seated frustrations over two critical civic issues: the hazardous dumping ground and persistent water scarcity plaguing the city.
Dumping Ground Debate Ignites Health Concerns
At the heart of the controversy lies the dumping ground situated in the Khadi quarry area of Ulhasnagar Camp No. 5. Corporators from both the ruling Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) and the opposition BJP engaged in sharp debates, alleging that frequent fires at the site are releasing toxic smoke that severely impacts nearby residential zones.
BJP members presented alarming claims, stating that worsening pollution has compelled thousands of residents to migrate from affected areas. They further asserted that over 30,000 individuals continue to face serious health risks, with some corporators even alleging a noticeable rise in severe illnesses, including cancer cases, among the local population.
Spiritual Leader's Health and Mayor's Inspection Highlight Crisis
During the discussions, BJP corporator Sherry Lund raised specific concerns regarding the health of noted Sindhi spiritual leader Sant Devprakash Maharaj, who is currently undergoing medical treatment at a Mumbai hospital. Lund alleged that doctors have advised the saint against returning to Ulhasnagar due to the hazardous pollution levels near his ashram in the Swami Shantiprakash area.
The recent site visit by Mayor Ashwini Nikam also came under intense scrutiny. Corporators pointed out that the mayor experienced breathing difficulties during her inspection of the dumping ground, a fact they emphasized to underscore the gravity of the environmental hazard.
Unified Demand for Immediate Action
In a rare show of unity, members from the BJP, Shiv Sena, and Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi jointly demanded the immediate relocation of the dumping ground. They pressed for the fulfillment of earlier assurances made by the civic administration to address this long-pending issue.
Municipal Commissioner Manisha Awhale responded by informing the house that waste processing at the site has already commenced. She further detailed that a collective dumping mechanism is being developed at Badlapur to facilitate the scientific disposal of garbage, aiming for a more sustainable solution.
Water Scarcity Protests Add to Meeting Tensions
Apart from the dumping ground controversy, the meeting witnessed strong protests over irregular water supply across Ulhasnagar. Corporators alleged widespread mismanagement in valve operations, which they claim is the primary cause of continued water shortages in several areas of the city.
This issue added another layer of urgency to the proceedings, with representatives demanding immediate corrective measures to ensure equitable and reliable water distribution to all residents.
Committee Formations Amidst the Turmoil
Despite the heated exchanges, the general body meeting proceeded with administrative formalities. The formation of the standing committee was announced, with eight members each from Shiv Sena and BJP being appointed to oversee municipal affairs.
Additionally, a total of nine special committees were constituted, with representation carefully allocated to members from both ruling parties to ensure balanced governance and oversight across various civic functions.
The stormy session underscores the pressing need for decisive action on environmental and infrastructure issues in Ulhasnagar, as civic leaders grapple with mounting public health concerns and basic service failures.
