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Journalism of Courage
Frustrated by rising air pollution from cement dust and construction debris, over 500 residents from 22 housing societies in Wakad and Tathawade staged a silent protest, demanding immediate action from authorities. The demonstrators, including senior citizens, women, and children, marched peacefully to call for cleaner air and healthier living conditions.
A protest organised by Wakad-Tathawade Housing Societies Forum, started at Kohinoor Courtyard One Society, passed through Indira School Road, and ended at Wakadkar Chowk. Residents voiced concerns over deteriorating air quality caused by dust from ready-mix concrete (RMC) plants, ongoing construction, and heavy vehicular emissions.
“We are breathing polluted air every day, and all of us in this area are suffering. Many residents, especially senior citizens and pregnant women, are experiencing respiratory illnesses, skin allergies, and eye infections,” said Soham Kakade, a protester.
“We need immediate action. Enough is enough! The authorities must take responsibility and implement proper dust control measures, road maintenance, and stricter pollution norms,” said Om Phalke.
Over 2,500 residents, mainly IT professionals from Shani Mandir Road area, participated. Their unity highlights the urgency for civic authorities to act and ensure a cleaner, safer environment. Residents are demanding regular road cleaning with water sprays, installation of dust control systems, stricter cleanliness measures, accountability for cement and gravel spillage, a sanitation campaign to prevent respiratory issues, and proper maintenance of trees along Shani Mandir to Marunji Road.
