Pune: Untreated Sewage Chokes Hinjewadi, MIDC Seeks Action from PMRDA

Hinjewadi, 10th April 2026: The Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park in Hinjewadi, which had faced severe waterlogging issue during last year’s monsoon, is now grappling with a different problem — foul odour — making it difficult for people to even walk in the area.

Several stretches along the main road in Phase II, particularly near Dohler Chowk and other key junctions, are witnessing a strong stench, forcing commuters and employees to cover their noses while passing through. The situation has led many to describe the IT hub as a “stinking zone”.

Multiple companies and residents have lodged complaints with the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), highlighting the worsening conditions. Apart from the unbearable smell, there are concerns over stagnant sewage, which could pose serious health risks.

According to officials, untreated sewage from residential projects falling under the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) limits is being directly discharged into stormwater drains. It has been alleged that sewage treatment plants (STPs) in these projects are either non-functional or not in use.

In a letter to PMRDA, MIDC has sought strict action against such projects and developers responsible for releasing untreated sewage. MIDC has also begun work to clear clogged drains in the area.

MIDC, in its communication, pointed out that several residential projects are discharging sewage into stormwater drain chambers along the metro corridor road in Phase II, particularly opposite Grand High Street Mall. This has led to clogging of 900-mm diameter pipelines. Similar instances have been reported near Metro Station No. 2 and close to a McDonald’s outlet, where sewage is allegedly being released directly into drains by nearby plot holders and projects.
Officials said the discharge of sewage into storm water drains is not only causing foul smell but also obstructing ongoing pre-monsoon works aimed at preventing waterlogging in the IT Park.

MIDC executive engineer Rajendra Totala said that following site inspections, it was confirmed that untreated sewage was being released into storm water drains from PMRDA areas. “We have written to PMRDA seeking immediate action to stop such practices,” he said.

MIDC is currently undertaking measures to prevent recurrence of last year’s flooding. However, officials warned that if the issue of sewage discharge is not addressed promptly, it could hamper these efforts and lead to a repeat of severe waterlogging during the upcoming monsoon.