Environmental activists in Pune have raised serious concerns about the dumping of construction debris along a 3.7km stretch of the Mula-Mutha river, spanning from Bund Garden to Sangamwadi. This practice, linked to the Pune Municipal Corporation's (PMC) riverfront development project, has garnered criticism for its detrimental environmental effects. Activists argue that the debris accumulation on the left bank of the river is causing the uprooting of trees, loosening of roots, and the death of plants and shrubs. They also claim that the PMC is pre-emptively planning tree removal, potentially violating orders from the National Green Tribunal, which directed the PMC not to plant any trees until an amendment to the Environment Clearance is approved by the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). Satellite imagery reveals trees buried under mud and debris, while the right bank of the river has been cleared, raising suspicions about the PMC's intentions.
In response, the PMC's chief engineer (projects) has asserted that they have not proceeded with any part of the riverfront development project without the requisite approvals. However, they acknowledge the concerns raised by activists and promise to investigate the matter further. The legal battles surrounding the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the riverfront development project have been ongoing, with the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal shifting approval responsibilities to state authorities. The situation underscores the ongoing struggle between environmental preservation and urban development, prompting activists to emphasize the importance of conserving natural resources in the face of potential dire consequences for the city and its environment.