Pune: The Chikhali-Moshi-Charholi-Pimpri-Chinchwad Housing Society Federation has called for immediate action against illegal scrap shops and warehouses operating in the Kudalwadi area.

The federation has alleged that these unauthorized establishments, numbering between 4,000 to 5,000, are causing severe air and water pollution and posing safety risks to residents.

A memorandum regarding these concerns was submitted to PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh, with a warning that the federation will resort to protests if their demands are not met within a month.

According to the federation, these illegal businesses engage in activities such as metal shredding, and burning plastic and other combustible materials.

These practices generate significant air pollution and, due to their proximity to the riverbanks, contribute to water contamination. Over the past year, the area has witnessed 40 fire incidents, further highlighting the hazardous nature of these operations.

The residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of action by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), despite repeated complaints.

Federation President Sanjeevan Sangle emphasized the need for immediate measures to address the issue, failing which large-scale protests would be organized.

In response to the situation, Member of Parliament Dr. Amol Kolhe from the Shirur Lok Sabha Constituency has demanded an impartial investigation into the matter. He urged the administration to ensure the inquiry is free from political bias and not targeted against any specific community.

Dr. Kolhe has also proposed measures such as setting up fire stations, conducting safety audits, implementing effective waste management, and providing training to reduce the risk of such incidents in the future.

The federation's ultimatum and Dr. Kolhe’s intervention have put the spotlight on the issue, increasing pressure on the municipal authorities to take swift and decisive action.