Pune: The long-standing efforts to rejuvenate the Indrayani River, a site of spiritual importance for the Warkari community, have finally moved forward, with the Maharashtra government receiving the long-awaited No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the state's Environmental Department.

This certification paves the way for the Indrayani River Improvement Project to commence, after significant delays due to technical challenges and bureaucratic hurdles.

The Indrayani River, which flows through the revered pilgrimage site of Alandi, has been a topic of growing concern, with the river often seen frothing due to pollution.

Despite being a symbol of devotion for many Warkaris, neglect over the years has led to frustration among devotees and residents alike. Local lawmakers and activists have consistently raised their voices, calling for immediate action.

Member of Parliament Dr. Amol Kolhe highlighted the issue in the national Parliament, while local MLAs Dilip Mohite (Khed-Alandi) and Mahesh Landge (Bhosari) pressed the state government on this matter.

Four months ago, Industry Minister Uday Samant had assured that tenders for sewage treatment plants (STP) along the river would be floated within three months. However, despite the passage of time, no significant steps were taken, leading to further frustration among concerned citizens.

Now, with the development plan for the river revitalization approved by various local and state authorities, including the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, Alandi Municipal Council, and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), the path has been cleared for the project’s tender process.

The project will involve the joint efforts of these entities, as the 20.6 km stretch of the river falls under both the municipal corporation’s and PMRDA’s jurisdiction.

Topographic surveys, geotechnical analyses, and land-use plans have been completed. The final approval of the environmental clearance allows the next stage—beginning the tender process and actual construction work—to commence. Residents are hopeful that the project will progress quickly, addressing the pollution that has plagued the river for years.

MLA Mahesh Landge expressed his satisfaction, stating that after several representations to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, success has been achieved. He emphasized the urgency to start the work and complete the project at the earliest, given the importance of the river to the people.