Team Herald
PONDA: The massive fire at a Dhavali scrapyard has left Kavlem locals furious and demanding action against illegal scrapyards operating in the area. At a recent urgent gram sabha chaired by Sarpanch Manuja Naik, Deputy Sushant Kapileshwarkar, and panch members, locals voiced their concerns and demanded that the panchayat file complaints with the police, fire station, health, pollution, and other relevant authorities.
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“We faced hazardous smoke for several days and fell ill. Still poisonous smoke is settling in the area. Locals feared if no action is taken, it would lead to more fire incidents in our villages,” said one concerned local.
The locals suspect that the Rohingyas residing in the area are involved in the illegal scrapyard business and demanded a police inquiry. They also pointed out that the RK Scrapyard’s business operations issue is subjudice and that a hearing is scheduled on May 12 at the Deputy Collector’s office. The panchayat should present its strong points that the scrapyard fire led to the National Highway being blocked for three days, causing hardship to commuters.
“There are around 30 illegal scrapyards in the panchayat,” admitted Deputy Sarpanch Sushant Kapileshwarkar, when questioned by gram sabha members. He also mentioned that there have been demolition orders by the panchayat and BDOs for scrapyards, but local scrapyard owners approach the court and get a stay on their demolition orders.
The locals questioned how these scrapyards get electricity and water connections without legal documents and demanded tenant verification to be conducted at the scrapyard.
If no action is taken, the locals have warned that they will take to the roads, just like the Kundaim locals, who blocked the highway for their demands. “Why should all residents suffer because of illegal business in the panchayat area?” questioned a resident. The locals demanded that no Minister or VIPs should get involved in the matter and protect illegal scrapyards.
