Pune: The pollution and revitalization of the Indrayani River remain critical concerns for Pimpri-Chinchwad and nearby areas. Despite ongoing efforts over the years, effective revitalization can only be achieved through a comprehensive "Common Action Plan" involving multiple government bodies, according to BJP MLA Mahesh Landge.
The Indrayani and Pavana rivers flow through Pimpri-Chinchwad, a rapidly growing city with over 3 million residents. The rivers are plagued by significant pollution from sewage, solid waste, plastic, and construction debris, posing threats to aquatic ecosystems and public health. In 2018, a project consultant was appointed to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) and oversee the river’s revitalization.
The 20.6 km stretch of the Indrayani River within Pimpri-Chinchwad is jointly managed by PCMC and PMRDA. The project requires PMRDA to issue no-objection certificates and provide funding based on the river's length. Completing these technical requirements is expected to accelerate the project.
PCMC has proposed and operationalized sewage treatment plants along the riverbank, ensuring treated sewage is discharged into the river. Additionally, efforts to remove encroachments from the riverbed are ongoing.
However, similar initiatives are necessary from other local bodies, including Lonavala, Wadgaon, Talegaon Dabhade, Dehuroad Cantonment, Dehu, and Alandi municipalities, as well as PMRDA, MIDC, and the Pune District Administration.
The river pollution issue spans from the river’s source to its confluence at Vadhu-Tulapur, making it a broader regional problem. Therefore, coordinated efforts across all responsible bodies are crucial for successful revitalization.
Planned River Improvement Project:
The river revitalization project includes riverbank beautification, flood control measures like gabion walls, constructing R.E. walls, installing large-diameter RCC interceptor sewer lines, and modular plants for treating domestic and industrial wastewater.
Proposed amenities include public access to the river, tree planting, park development, cycling paths, footpaths, beautification, cremation grounds, sanitation facilities, and immersion ghats.
Additionally, if space permits, attractive theme parks, restaurants, and entertainment centers along the riverbank are proposed to fund the project's maintenance and repair.
Current Status:
Project consultants have completed a full survey of the Indrayani River, including topographic and geotechnical surveys, base maps, land use plans, project plans, and a concept master plan.
Approval from the state government’s environmental department committee is now required for the concept master plan. Following this, project tenders will be issued to commence work.
Efforts are underway to secure approval for the Indrayani revitalization project under the central government's AMRUT 2.0 program, and state government support is needed.
MLA Mahesh Landge stated that the matter will be raised in the upcoming legislative session to draw attention to this critical issue.