Pune: Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Assures RFD in Pimpri-Chinchwad Will Not Harm Biodiversity; Promises Action on Polluted Water Supply

Reported by Varad Bhatkhande
Mumbai, 4th July 2025: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday, during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, addressed key issues related to Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. He assured that the Riverfront Development (RFD) project will be implemented without causing harm to the rivers’ biodiversity and in consultation with environmental experts.

Several citizens and environmentalists have strongly opposed the RFD project, arguing that it does not address the root cause of river pollution and may further damage river ecosystems. Shinde also acknowledged concerns raised by Pimpri-Chinchwad residents regarding polluted water supply and promised swift resolution.

Council Concerns on RFD

Members of the Legislative Council (MLCs), Uma Khapare, Amit Gorakhe, Pravin Darekar, Prasad Lad, Niranjan Davkhare, Yogesh Tilekar, Sadashiv Khot, and Parinay Phuke – raised concerns about the RFD narrowing river widths and threatening biodiversity. The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) administration faced criticism for its handling of the project.

Responding to the concerns, Shinde stated that the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) and PCMC are planning RFD projects for three rivers, Pavana, Mula, and Indrayani. These projects, he assured, will be executed without disturbing biodiversity or aquatic life.

A detailed project report worth Rs 671 crore has been prepared by PMRDA for Indrayani River development and presented to the National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) through the Maharashtra Environment and Climate Change Department. Additionally, a Rs 218 crore project report for Pavana River is under review. A consultant is being appointed for the Mutha River Development project as well.

The central government will contribute 60% funding for the projects, while Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), PCMC, and PMRDA will collectively bear the remaining 40%. A consultancy firm has already been appointed for Pavana and Indrayani rivers. The Maharashtra government has also granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Mula River development, which will be based on reports by water scientists.

Shinde Responds to Public Opposition

Shinde acknowledged widespread opposition to the RFD from citizens and environmental groups who have held protests and human chains against the project. Protesters argue that the plan reduces the river basin area, increasing the risk of floods. They urge authorities to focus on pollution control instead of beautification, comparing rivers to mothers with disease needing medicine, not makeup. Shinde assured that discussions will be held with representatives from environmental organizations, and their suggestions will be incorporated into the project.

Polluted Water Supply in Pimpri-Chinchwad Acknowledged

Multiple MLCs brought up the issue of contaminated water supply in Moshi and surrounding housing societies. Addressing this, Shinde explained that water is sourced from the Indrayani River at Nighoje, treated at the Chikhali purification plant, and supplied to the Moshi area. Following complaints, an aerator was installed at the Nighoje dam to enhance oxygen levels in the water, and water hyacinth was removed. The Water Resources Department has been directed to maintain and repair the dam, while regular testing is being conducted to ensure clean and safe water supply.