PUNE: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to stop dumping of debris in the riverbed and parking of unauthorised vehicles near it. The civic body has now deputed security personnel to stop these illegal activities 24x7 and they have been alloted a special vehicle. 

PMC’s Anti-encroachment Department Head Madhav Jagtap said, “We have appointed 52 security personnel for 24x7 vigilance to prevent dumping of debris and parking in the riverbed. Other than that, ward offices are also using their manpower to keep a watch on such illegal activities. The PMC will seize vehicles, call police officials and charge fine of minimum 

Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 from vehicle owners. From last month, Aundh ward office has taken action against 13 vehicles for dumping debris in the riverbed.”

In the first week of May, Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao had issued an order to the five zonal officers and the Anti-encroachment Department to depute staff around the clock to curb, stop and take action on dumping debris and illegal parking near the riverbed. The commissioner had also mentioned providing a vehicle to keep vigilance on the activities. The PMC has already put a ban on dumping debris in open space, riverbed, nala and quarries. 

The civic body has fixed a fine amount of Rs 25,000 for dumping debris in the riverbed. It has seen that most of the dumping activities are carried out at night. 

As per the order, the civic staff will work in three shifts and they will monitor vulnerable spots. A vehicle will be provided to the staff for monitoring the areas.       

Pune is situated on the banks of the Mula and Mutha rivers. Almost 18.69 km of Mutha river runs through the city. Out of 15 ward offices, Mula-Mutha passes through seven wards offices.