In a significant development, the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) has opted to defer the issuance of environmental clearance for the ambitious Pune River Front Development Project. Spearheaded by the Pune Municipal Corporation, the project aims to revitalize three crucial rivers in the region—Mula, Mutha, and Mula-Mutha.
During a pivotal meeting on November 7, 2023, SEIAA carefully examined various facets of the proposed project, emphasizing several key points and observations that require meticulous consideration before granting environmental clearance.
- Technical Compliance Requirements: SEIAA underscored the highly technical nature of numerous compliance requirements identified by the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC). The project proponent (PP) has been formally requested to submit compliance for the 18 listed requirements, addressing intricate technical aspects in the proposal.
- Hydraulic and Hydrology Study: The Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) have been tasked with conducting a comprehensive assessment of the hydraulic and hydrology study/report submitted by the project proponent. Specific focus areas include potential impacts on river flooding, consideration of 100-year floods data, adherence to Indian Standards Codes, and incorporation of Gol Climate change scenarios.
- TERI Report: SEIAA emphasized the importance of considering a report from The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), which indicates a 37.5% rise in annual rainfall around Pune, accompanied by more frequent cloudbursts. The potential impact of this climatic change on the project needs careful evaluation.
- Mula Mutha River Cleaning: SEIAA stressed the necessity of including a detailed component for the cleaning of the Mula Mutha River in the overall project plan. This reflects a broader concern for environmental preservation and sustainable development.
SEIAA Decision: After thorough deliberation, SEIAA made the decision to defer the proposal until the project proponent addresses and submits comprehensive solutions for the above-mentioned points.
