Pune Floods: Plastic Trash Blamed for City's Waterlogged Woes

Pune experienced a flood-like situation after unseasonal heavy rain on April 2, with significant plastic waste found blocking the city's stormwater drains. In response, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has declared a renewed drive against the users and traders of banned plastic.

Civic activists and environmentalists have criticized the PMC's announcement as a superficial attempt to pacify public anger following mismanagement. They argue that the corporation has long failed to act strictly against manufacturers of non-biodegradable materials, with such drives typically ceasing after initial public outcry.

Between January and March this year, PMC seized 920kg of banned plastic and collected Rs11.46 lakh in fines. This indicates a limited scope of action, with legal measures taken against only around 200 individuals. Residents noted the continuous use of plastic bags by vendors and shops, especially during festive seasons, and called for action at the source of plastic generation.

According to PMC directives, the ban encompasses single-use plastics including bags, cutlery, straws, and ear buds, with specific thickness regulations. Meanwhile, residents also voiced concerns over improper garbage segregation spots, highlighting a case near Sai Chowk that creates a nuisance and potential health hazard due to foul odors.

Avinash Sapkal, deputy commissioner of PMC's solid waste management department, acknowledged the situation and stated that instructions have been issued to intensify drives through ward officers and central teams to increase their impact.