In response to alarming pollution levels in the Indrayani River, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) have jointly issued closure notices to two companies found to be responsible during a recent inspection. The move comes following directives from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to address pollution concerns before the upcoming Kartiki Wari pilgrimage.
Officials conducted an inspection near the river to identify pollution sources and discovered two businesses releasing contaminated water into a stream connected to the river. The MPCB promptly issued warnings to other industrial units in the vicinity, cautioning against the discharge of polluted water into the river and threatening severe measures for non-compliance.
The annual Kartiki Wari pilgrimage sees a significant influx of devotees visiting the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj temple, emphasizing the urgency to address environmental concerns in the region.
According to a PCMC official, multiple industrial units in Kudalwadi and Jadhavwadi have been found violating regulations, and stringent measures will be implemented to ensure the prevention of river pollution within PCMC’s jurisdiction.
The observation of foam in the river, as reported by PCMC officials, is attributed to the release of water from dams ahead of Kartiki Wari. Additionally, the Jadhavwadi Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) remains incomplete, contributing to the pollution issue. The PCMC official assures that the STP’s completion is imminent, and once operational, it will significantly mitigate the release of untreated water into the river.
While certain areas with operational STPs adhere to water treatment standards, the ongoing inspection by the MPCB indicates a continuous effort to monitor and enforce environmental regulations. The MPCB representative emphasizes that strict action awaits any company found violating pollution control rules, stressing the need for immediate resolution.
