The serene environs of Kavadipat, once a haven for avian species, now bear witness to a distressing sight as the Mutha river stands in a deplorable state, marred by pollution and neglect. Recent observations reveal a concerning scenario, with garbage strewn on one side of the riverbank and foam engulfing the waters on the other, prompting fears of irreversible environmental damage.
Renowned bird watcher Hemant Dhadnekar captured footage depicting the dire condition of the Mutha river near Kavadipat, shedding light on the gravity of the situation. Speaking to Pune Pulse, Dhadnekar expressed dismay over the rampant pollution plaguing the once-pristine ecosystem. He lamented the accumulation of garbage over several years, coupled with the influx of chemical-laden foam, driving away avian inhabitants and threatening the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
The pollution crisis extends beyond Kavadipat, with reports emerging of similar degradation in other parts of Pune. Recent incidents, including the tragic demise of the rare Mahashir fish in the Indrayani river, underscore the urgent need for remedial action to mitigate the adverse effects of pollution on aquatic life and biodiversity.
A concerning aspect highlighted by environmental experts is the detrimental impact of untreated wastewater from residential areas, exacerbating the pollution levels in the rivers. The emergence of foam in the Mutha river serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address sewage treatment and waste management practices in Pune.
Moreover, the polluted waters of the Mutha river pose a significant threat to the diverse avian population that once thrived in the region. The convergence of the Mula-Mutha river reservoir with the bridge at Kavadipat provided a vital habitat for various bird species, both resident and migratory. However, the proliferation of pollution and foam jeopardizes their survival, signaling a grim reality for the local ecosystem.
As concerns mount over the deteriorating state of the Mutha river and its impact on biodiversity, calls for immediate action resonate among environmental advocates and concerned citizens. Addressing the root causes of pollution, enhancing sewage treatment infrastructure, and implementing stringent waste management practices are imperative to safeguarding the ecological integrity of Pune’s water bodies and restoring balance to the delicate ecosystem.
