Special Correspondent
Pune: Residents of multiple housing societies in the Shani Temple Road area of Wakad-Tathawade are grappling with severe health issues caused by cement dust and rising air pollution. Despite repeated complaints to authorities and elected representatives, no action has been taken to address the problem. Frustrated by the inaction, more than 500 residents from over 22 housing societies organized a silent protest on Saturday (March 8) to demand immediate measures to curb pollution.
The protestors, including senior citizens, women, and children, marched from Kohinoor Courtyard Society to Wakadkar Corner, wearing face masks and carrying banners highlighting their concerns. They demanded urgent intervention to control the pollution caused by cement dust and construction debris, which has significantly deteriorated air quality in the locality.
Key Concerns Raised by Residents
Escalating Pollution Levels: The presence of cement dust and pollution from heavy vehicles has severely impacted air quality, leading to various health issues.
Serious Health Impacts: Cases of asthma, allergies, and respiratory ailments are on the rise, particularly affecting children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
Negligence by Authorities: Despite several complaints to the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), no concrete steps have been taken.
Declining Quality of Life: Residents are facing daily struggles due to dust accumulation on roads, vehicles, and homes, impacting their overall well-being.
Demands Put Forth by the Protestors
Implementation of strict pollution control measures.
Regular monitoring of air pollution levels.
Cleaning of roads twice a day.
Strict action against polluting vehicles.
Spraying of water on roads to reduce dust pollution.
Provision of healthcare services for residents affected by pollution.
Maintenance and watering of roadside trees to improve air quality.
Residents have warned that if their concerns are not addressed immediately, they will intensify their protest to ensure action is taken.
