Pune VIDEO: Over 1,000 Workers Clean Up Diwali Firecracker Waste

Pune witnessed an enormous cleanup effort following Diwali celebrations, with over 1,000 sanitation workers deployed to clear vast amounts of firecracker waste, packaging materials and discarded puja items from roads, footpaths and public spaces. The city's civic responsibility among some residents was highlighted by the significant litter left behind by revelers.

SM Joshi Bridge was particularly affected, with large quantities of waste, including firecracker remnants and packaging materials, scattered across the area. Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) workers began clearing the mess as early as 5 am, with their work expected to continue until late afternoon or early evening.

Sanitation workers Minakshi Khandale and Sharmila Aaiwale expressed that while they wished to celebrate Diwali with their families, they remained committed to their duties. They appealed to citizens to dispose of waste properly in designated bins instead of littering public spaces and water bodies. Khandale noted that despite their hardships, they too desired to celebrate the festival freely.

A senior PMC official emphasized the substantial volume of waste generated during Diwali this year, requiring extensive manpower and longer working hours. The official expressed concern over motorists allegedly discarding garbage from their vehicles onto roadsides and waterways. He urged residents to understand the importance of keeping the city clean and taking responsibility for their actions, highlighting the need for civic discipline from all citizens.