Prathamesh Basagare, Pune
The proposal of the Pune Metropolitan Area Development Authority (PMRDA) to clean up the Indrayani River has received approval from the state government. Ramdas Jagtap, Deputy Collector of PMRDA, disclosed the information.
After a thick layer of poisonous foam accumulated on the surface of the waters of the Indrayani River in the temple town of Alandi, the administration, and council of the Pune district came under harsh criticism in the last couple of years. Many locals use it for drinking and residential purposes; therefore, it sparked anxiety and concern among them. Allegations have also surfaced, pointing fingers at both industrial establishments in Pimpri Chinchwad for discharging pollutants into the river and local residents along with AMC (Alandi Municipal Council) officials for their suspected involvement in this irresponsible practice.
On receiving a green signal from the state government for a clean-up drive, Ramdas Jagtap stated, “A detailed project plan (DPR) can now be sent to the central government for final approvals. A proposal to install 18 sewage treatment plants (STPs) at the banks of the Indrayani River has also been made. Once the final approval is received, the budget and other important decisions will be made.”
According to the information, if the central government’s final approval is granted, 50% of the funds will go to the central government, and 50% will come from the state government. The Indrayani River’s 103-kilometer stretch of pollution control is proposed as a number of sub-projects under one larger project. Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has jurisdiction over an area of 17–18 km.
Numerous industrial facilities discharge untreated water directly into rivers, which is now dangerous. There will be an effort to reduce the pollution that such industrial waters cause. In addition to having a pollution-free river, the area will be developed as a tourism destination by beautifying the river’s banks and building a ghat for worshippers.