Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Takes Action: Rs 10 Lakh Fine for Morwadi Fire

Varad Bhatkhande

On February 21, a significant fire broke out in an open area located behind Amriteshwar Colony in Morwadi, Pimpri. The blaze resulted in the burning of various scrap materials, including rubber, plastic, and tyres. This incident led to a significant amount of air pollution. In response, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has issued a notice to Amriteshwar Trust, imposing a fine of Rs 10 lakh.

The vacant land in Morwadi, Amriteshwar Colony, is owned by Amriteshwar Trust. This open space became a dumping ground for rubber, plastic, tyres, and other scrap materials from the industrial sector. On the afternoon of February 21, a massive fire broke out, surpassing the capacity of 13 firefighting vehicles to contain it. The fire continued to smoulder, releasing smoke throughout the night and was finally brought under control the following morning.

The scale of the fire generated a substantial amount of poisonous smoke, posing a significant health threat to the residents. The intensity was so severe that people living 7/8 kilometres away could witness the smoke, and nearby residents experienced difficulty breathing. The lingering effects of the smoke persisted in the surrounding area for 2/3 days, impacting the overall well-being of the community.

In response to the incident, Sanjay Kulkarni, Joint City Engineer in the PCMC Environment Department, stated, “Dumping of waste materials occurred in a Morwadi open space. On Thursday (29th), the PCMC Environment Department issued a notice to Amriteshwar Trust regarding the fire’s origin. A fine of 10 lakhs has been mandated, and if unpaid, necessary actions will be taken.”