Photo Credit: Policenama

Tejas Navale

Pune: The biomining project at Devachi Uruli has remained at a standstill for nearly six months as the solid waste department struggles to secure a contractor of its preference. Despite orders from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the process of handling old waste has come to a halt, leaving residents dismayed. Concerns are raised about the influence of a 'powerful' leader dictating operations within the solid waste department, while the citizens of Devachi Uruli and Fursungi bear the consequences.

The waste depot at Devachi Uruli has ceased open dumping, with efforts focused on clearing accumulated waste through the process of biomining. Approximately 12 lakh metric tonnes of waste have been processed in the initial phase, leading to significant space clearance. However, a substantial 34 lakh metric tonnes of waste still remain.

Despite this, the solid waste department has only tendered for the biomining process of a fraction—two and a half lakh metric tonnes of waste. Following an inspection by the former commissioner, orders were issued to tender for processing one million metric tonnes of waste. However, all operations have ground to a halt due to the Lok Sabha Election Code of Conduct.

Allegations have surfaced regarding favouritism within the solid waste department, with an official purportedly pushing for contracts to be awarded to a preferred contractor. This official, reportedly backed by a 'powerful' leader, has collaborated with two officers from other departments to influence decisions.

Similar tactics were employed previously to secure lucrative contracts for a favoured contractor, resulting in the installation of machinery that remains idle. Additionally, scientific landfilling tasks, including leachate treatment, were assigned but left unfulfilled.

Despite funds allocated for leachate treatment, it is revealed that the waste's leachate was neither treated nor disposed of appropriately. Instead, it was allegedly stored in wells at leachate and discharged onto garbage dumps.

The prolonged halt of the biomining project raises concerns about environmental degradation and public health hazards in Devachi Uruli and Fursungi.