Pune: Maharashtra State Government’s Delay Impacts PCMC River Revitalization Projects
Pimpri, 24th November 2023: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), inspired by the Sabarmati River revitalization in Ahmedabad, devised plans for the revival of PCMC’s three rivers.
The Pawana River project, covering a 24.40 km stretch on both sides, is estimated at Rs. 1,556 crores. Similarly, the Indrayani River project involves an 18.80 km stretch, with a projected cost of Rs. 1,200 crores. The Mula River project, spanning 14.40 km, is expected to cost Rs. 750 crores. While PCMC’s Standing Committee approved the initial phase of the Pawana River project, delays persist due to pending approvals for the Indrayani and Mula River projects.
The Indrayani River Project, incorporated into the Amrit Yojana, is set to receive Rs. 550 crores in funding, with the Central Government contributing 50%, and the Maharashtra State Government and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation each contributing 25%. However, despite the allocation, chemically mixed sewage continues to be discharged directly into the river basin, resulting in severe pollution and an unpleasant odour for eight months of the year. The National Green Arbitrator has requested a revised environmental no-objection certificate, causing further delays.
Sanjay Kulkarni, City Engineer from the Environmental Engineering Department of Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipality, stated, “The National Green Arbitrator has requested a revised environmental no-objection certificate. In response, the Pune Municipal Corporation has applied to the government. Once approval is granted, work on the Mula River project will commence. Additionally, the final stage approval from the Environmental Engineering Department Committee of the Maharashtra State Government is pending for the Pawana River project.”
