Panvel’s waterways clogged

WITH RISING HEALTH HAZARDS AND DAMAGE TO THE ECO-SYSTEM, PLASTIC WASTE IS PROVING TO BE A GROWING DISASTER. IN THIS SERIES, HT ANALYSES THE GRAVITY OF THE PROBLEM AND LOOKS AT STEPS NEEDED TO TACKLE THE MENACE HEALTH HAZARD Plastic waste is often dumped

PANVEL: The excessive use of plastic in Panvel is becoming a health concern in a node that is growing rapidly. Water bodies, drains and hospitals, all seem to be choking on this synthetic mess.

Not only are canals and other water bodies blocked by plastic, but also public spaces such as gardens and hospitals are full of plastic garbage.

It is ironical that although people often complain about the lack of proper disposal of plastic waste, this does not deter them from using the nonbiodegradable material, as is proved by the heaps of plastic waste that are seen in various parts of the city.

On March 15, HT reported on the filth that was accumulating in Vadale lake and Israel lake in the city owing to the dumping of all kinds of garbage, including plastic waste.

Locals in the area also alleged that medical waste was often thrown into these water bodies, thus suffocating the aquatic life.

Although people often resort to burning plastic as way to get rid of it, experts and social workers warn of serious health consequences that it could lead to.

Owing to the chemical composition of plastic, it emits toxic gases such as dioxin, which cause cancer. The gases also affect the respiratory organs causing serious disorders.

People fail to realise the effect this has on those living near landfill sites or dumping grounds because of the air pollution it causes, as well as on the health of rag pickers.

Very often, heaps of plastic waste including plastic bags that are used for shopping can also be seen in areas behind wholesale markets and fish markets in the city.

Susan Joy, a resident of Panvel said, “While we are already struggling with the problem of sanitation, plastic is only making matters worse and is affecting the health and environment of the city.”

Dileep Kadam, chief health inspector of Panvel Municipal Council said that it was imporant that residents shared the responsibilty of keping the city plastic-free.

“We will take all possible steps to clean the city and rid it of plastic. We understand that it is a a critical form of waste that needs to be dealt with carefully.”

Kadam added, “Residents too should cooperate and put waste in garbage bins and not in open spaces and ponds.”