Pune: Indrayani River Foam Raises Alarms: Social Activist Maruti Bhapkar Urges Criminal Action Against Polluters
Varad Bhatkhande
Alandi, 11th November 2023: In a shocking revelation, the serene waters of Indrayani, Pawana, and Mula rivers, which flow through the heart of Pimpri Chinchwad, have been transformed into polluted cesspools due to the negligence of local authorities and unscrupulous industrial practices. Social activist Maruti Bhapkar has urged immediate criminal action against the responsible companies and officials.
The once pristine rivers, originating in Maval Taluka, maintain their purity until they reach the city limits. However, upon entering Pimpri Chinchwad, rampant pollution by unethical entrepreneurs has turned these holy rivers into nothing short of sewers. The gravity of the situation became painfully evident on Saturday, 11th November, as images circulated on social media showcasing the Indrayani River completely foaming in its bed, raising questions about whether it was a river or a glacier in the Himalayas. This follows a disturbing incident where thousands of fish were found dead in the Indrayani River, further emphasizing the urgent need for intervention.
Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation had initiated action against 24 Klen (M/s Klenfab Services LLP) in Tathawade, specifically concerning the pollution of the Pawana River. However, the scope of the problem extends beyond a single company, with numerous industrialists and residential complexes contributing to the degradation of these vital water bodies.
The Pawana River, flowing approximately 25 kilometres through the city limits, witnesses chemical discharge from factories and pollution from various urban settlements. The Indrayani River, too, is not spared as industrial effluents further degrade its water quality.
Senior social worker Maruti Bhapkar has called upon the Central Government, the Maharashtra State Government, and the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation to take urgent criminal action against those responsible. Bhapkar has reported comprehensive information on the pollution, encroachments, and illegal activities along the riverbanks to Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the Maharashtra Ministry.
In a statement, Bhapkar said, “We request the authorities to take note of the serious issue of river pollution in the cities of Pimpri Chinchwad and take strict action immediately and implement appropriate measures. Many builders exploit the rivers by selling the properties to unsuspecting buyers. This reckless exploitation not only harms the environment but also contributes to financial losses for taxpayers.”
