Insidious dumping is ruining Aarey forest

Illegal dumping of soil and rock debris within the jurisdiction of Aarey Milk Colony, adjacent to JVLR

Unauthorised dumping of construction debris, garbage and soil continues to threaten the eco-sensitive zone inside Aarey Milk Colony, stated our report.

A case in point is a little over a month ago, an officer and his team discovered six to seven dumper loads of waste on government land adjacent to the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road (JVLR).

An official endorsed that they had found the garbage and an investigation is on to nab the offenders. Going beyond this problem, we all know that open ground, lakes, little water bodies, river sides and in fact, even corners or unmanned sites have become convenient dumping grounds in the city.

This happens late night, when trucks come in, waste or garbage is dumped, at times it is some building material, and then taken to a spot in the dark and emptied. This is the bigger picture.

A smaller but equally important picture is of people dumping their garbage at spots, after dark. Lanes which are relatively empty, or even a building which is not inhabited, some open spaces become dustbins for people who do not want to dump their garbage in the correct way because this is so much easier.

The Aarey problem stems from this attitude where it seems fair game to target some space, away from too many people, and use it as a rubbish ground.

When it comes to Aarey, top of the line surveillance is vital. Signboards warning and citing specific action against these violations may be a good idea. Track dumpers coming into this vast space and good lighting too which can come on even at night is a must. Prevent and when it occurs pursue, punish and prosecute.