Pune: PCMC Warns Housing Societies of Non-Functional Garbage Units
Residents of housing societies in Pimpri Chinchwad are concerned about notices sent by the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) regarding non-functional wet garbage processing units on their premises. According to the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, housing societies producing more than 100 kg of waste or occupying more than 500 square feet must process wet garbage on their own.
The PCMC notices warn that garbage collection will be halted for non-compliant societies starting from July 15. A senior PCMC official clarified that the notices were intended to spread awareness about waste segregation and management norms, specifically targeting housing societies within the ‘D’ zonal office limits. “We will continue to collect waste; notices were sent only to create awareness,” said Ankush Jadhav, zonal officer, D ward.
Despite reassurances, residents remain worried. Some societies, like GK Rose Mansion in Punawale, cite a lack of space and infrastructure for such plants, issues that were not addressed during construction. A resident of GK Rose Mansion Society, expressed frustration, saying, “There is no space available to install any garbage processing plant in our society, and the developer did not build any such plant during construction. Yet, he was given a building completion certificate by PCMC.”
Housing societies with functional garbage processing units receive property tax concessions, highlighting the need for compliance to maintain these benefits. However, some societies are not making these plants functional and are still availing tax benefits. Secretary of Shreya Housing Society, noted, “PCMC officials said in the notice that they will not collect garbage from July 15. We immediately contacted them, but were told that the notices are final, and we have to comply.”
The PCMC has emphasized the importance of societies adhering to the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, to ensure proper waste management and avail of property tax concessions.
