Ravet Residents Oppose Waste-to-Energy Plant
Proposed site near water treatment plant, residential areas and Durga Hill raises environmental and public safety concerns
PIMPRI-CHINCHWAD : The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation’s (PCMC) proposal to set up a waste-to-energy plant on around 25 acres of MIDC land in Ravet has triggered opposition from residents and environmentalists, who have questioned the suitability of the site and alleged that the civic body has moved ahead without adequately consulting local communities.
The opposition has gathered momentum after residents learnt that PCMC had approached the state government seeking the land for the proposed project. Local residents are now considering launching a protest against the move.
The proposed site has drawn objections primarily because of its proximity to the Ravet water treatment plant, the Pradhikaran area and several densely populated residential neighbourhoods. Residents have argued that establishing a waste-processing facility in this location could raise environmental and public health concerns.
Ravet has witnessed substantial residential growth in recent years, with numerous housing societies, educational institutions and hospitals in the surrounding areas. Residents fear that the proposed plant could affect the quality of life in the neighbourhood and have urged the civic body to reconsider the location.
They have also called on PCMC to examine alternative sites and address concerns related to waste processing at its proposed Moshi facility before pursuing another project in a residentially sensitive area.
Water infrastructure and ecological concerns
The availability of land for future civic infrastructure is another concern raised by residents. The proposed site, located near the Ravet weir, could potentially be used to expand the city’s water supply infrastructure, they said. Allocating the land to a waste-to-energy plant could restrict future options for water-related development.
Environmentalists and residents have also flagged the potential impact on tree cover and local biodiversity. They fear that the project could affect birds, animals and plant species in the surrounding area.
Particular concern has been expressed over the proximity of Durga Hill, a popular destination for morning walkers that attracts thousands of people. Residents fear that the development could adversely affect the area’s natural surroundings and recreational value.
Safety concerns add to opposition
The proposed location has also raised questions over environmental safety and land-use suitability. Residents have pointed out that the site falls within a red zone, lies close to an ordnance factory and has high-voltage electricity transmission lines passing through the area.
They have sought clarity on how these factors would be assessed before the project moves forward, particularly given the site’s proximity to residential settlements and water-related infrastructure.
With opposition building around the proposed location, residents want PCMC to reconsider its decision-making approach, consult affected communities and provide clear information on the project’s environmental and public safety implications before proceeding further.
