Lokmat News Network
Aditi Sharma
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
On the occasion of Earth Day, the city reflects a growing concern over its changing environment. Rising temperatures and shrinking green spaces are becoming part of daily life for residents. Open garbage burning and traffic congestion continue to worsen air quality, especially in busy areas. Experts stress that sustainable urban planning and public participation are key. As the city expands, balancing development with environmental responsibility is no longer optional, but necessary for a healthier future.
Sustainability still out of reach
"I believe our city is not ready for a sustainable future. Rapid urbanisation has created serious environmental challenges, especially drainage issues that continue to affect daily life. Plantation is essential, yet our city lacks the required tree cover as per environmental norms. Despite being surrounded by mountain ranges that could be developed into green zones, we are witnessing continuous tree cutting. Many government initiatives exist only on paper or remain limited to events. Meanwhile, river pollution and incomplete projects like the Kham river initiative highlight the urgent need for real, sustained action."
– Dr. Kishor Gathadi, secretary, nisarg mitra mandal
City chokes on pollution, heat climbs
"Environmental degradation and pollution are major concerns in our city causing serious health concerns and making the city less liveable. Acute and cronic health problems arise from from broken sewerage, open effluents, C&D waste, dust, and garbage burning. Rampant tree cutting in CSN is worsening rising heat, damaging our microclimate, increasing AC use, and intensifying the urban heat island effect. Compensatory plantation is a myth. Waste segregation, recycling, and composting must become the norm. With real leadership, we can turn climate plans into real action and build a cleaner, greener, healthier city."
– Natasha Zarine, environmentalist
City's environmental crisis needs urgent action
"Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar faces rising environmental stress, with AQI levels of 140–150 driven by PM2.5, heat, and construction dust. Rapid loss of mature trees for infrastructure worsens climate imbalance, demanding transplantation and biodiversity parks. Rivers like Kham and Sukhna remain polluted despite rejuvenation efforts, requiring phytoremediation and better sewage control. Poor waste management in suburbs adds to the crisis. The Development Plan 2047 must prioritize climate resilience, strict pollution control, and sustainable citizen practices like rainwater harvesting and eco-friendly transport."
– Dr. B. L. Chavan, Professor & Head, Dept. of Environmental Science, Dr. BAMU, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar