Pune GBS Outbreak: PMC Shuts Down Eight RO Plants Again After Failing Water Quality Checks

Pune, 10th March 2025: Eight reverse osmosis (RO) plants in the Sinhagad Road area, which were recently permitted to resume operations, have been shut down once again by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) after failing to meet water quality standards, officials confirmed.

The plants were initially closed following an outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Sinhagad Road and nearby areas such as Dhayari, Khadakwasla, and Kirkatwadi. An inspection of 30 RO plants in the region had revealed severe bacterial contamination in the water supplied by 25 of them.

After the initial closure, the PMC had allowed the plants to reopen under strict conditions, requiring them to register with the civic body, carry out necessary repairs, and ensure their water met safety standards. However, recent inspections found that eight of these plants had failed to comply.

“Despite clear directives, these plants did not take the necessary corrective measures. As a result, we have sealed them again,” said Nandkishor Jagtap, head of PMC’s water supply department.

Many residents in these areas have long relied on private RO plants and tankers for drinking water due to inadequate municipal supply. The closure of these units has once again highlighted the pressing issue of water scarcity in the newly merged areas of Pune.

Following the GBS outbreak, PMC had issued new guidelines for RO plant operators. They are now required to submit applications to the water department and ensure that their filtration systems are serviced and certified by equipment manufacturers. These certifications must confirm that the plants meet WHO and IS 10500 (2012) water quality standards before resuming operations.

With the latest crackdown, PMC officials have assured that inspections will continue to ensure safe drinking water for residents.