The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued show-cause notices to eight local bodies across Pune, Satara, and Solapur districts, highlighting their failure to curb water pollution in the Indrayani, Bhima, and Nira rivers. These notices, demanding responses within 15 days, come in the wake of increasing concerns over environmental degradation, particularly ahead of the annual Palkhi procession.
Identifying the Culprits
Among the local bodies summoned, the Khadki Cantonment Board, Lonavala Municipal Council, Khandala Council, Alandi Municipal Council, and Talegaon Dabhade Council in Pune, along with the Phaltan Municipal Council in Satara and Pandharpur Municipal Council in Solapur, have been singled out for their alleged negligence. Notably, the Alandi, Phaltan, and Lonavala municipal councils have been categorized under the red zone for significantly contributing to river pollution in their respective jurisdictions.
Violations and Consequences
According to MPCB assessments, these local bodies have been accused of discharging untreated domestic effluents directly into the rivers or through various drainage channels, leading to substantial pollution levels. The MPCB has cited non-compliance with the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, as grounds for potential legal action. Under Section 33A of the Act, the board has warned of prosecution and environmental compensation if corrective measures are not promptly implemented.
Call for Action Plans
Regional Officer Ravindra Andhale emphasized that the MPCB has already taken initial regulatory actions and now expects comprehensive action plans from the concerned local bodies. These plans must outline both short-term and long-term strategies to treat 100% of the domestic effluents generated within their jurisdictions. Failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe will result in immediate legal repercussions without further notice.
MPCB’s Stance and Future Steps
Speaking on behalf of MPCB Pune, Ravindra Andhale reiterated the board’s commitment to enforcing environmental standards. He emphasized the urgency for local bodies to prevent untreated sewage discharge, emphasizing that the responsibility now lies squarely with these authorities to safeguard natural water bodies from further pollution.
Simultaneously, MPCB is preparing a proposal to seek permission from its Mumbai headquarters to initiate legal proceedings against the defaulting local bodies. This proactive approach underscores MPCB’s resolve to uphold environmental integrity and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
