Pune: PMC Plans Rs 250 Crore Water Treatment Plant After GBS Outbreak in Dhayari
Pune, 19th March 2025: In response to the recent surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in Dhayari and surrounding areas, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has proposed establishing a ₹250-crore water treatment plant (WTP) in the Sinhagad Road region. The area currently receives untreated water from the Khadakwasla dam through community wells. The proposed plant, with a capacity to treat 100 million liters per day (MLD), is expected to be operational soon.
According to PMC’s health department, Pune has recorded 230 cases of GBS and 12 fatalities, with 95 cases emerging from newly incorporated areas under the municipal limits. Experts have pointed to water contamination as a major factor contributing to the outbreak, underscoring the need for improved water quality standards.
Residents of affected localities, including Dhayari, Khadakwasla, Kirkatwadi, Nandoshi, and Nanded, have been vocal about the need for a dedicated water treatment facility. While GBS cases have declined, concerns over water safety persist.
To address water safety concerns in the short term, PMC has installed chlorination units at key wells in Barangani Mala and Nanded, ensuring proper disinfection before distribution. A senior official from the civic body added, “We are taking steps to improve the water supply in Sinhagad Road areas. The proposal for the new WTP will soon be presented to the PMC’s estimate committee for approval.”
PMC is also considering an alternative plan to supply treated water from the Wadgaon treatment plant to Dhayari through a newly laid pipeline. However, officials admitted that this plan presents technical challenges and may not be implemented immediately.
