Pune: Water in Bhatghar Dam Turns Green Briefly, Returns to Normal; Officials Suspect Excessive Fish Feed as Cause

Bhor, 24th July 2025: A brief but concerning change in the color of water at Bhatghar Dam near Bhor, approximately 60 km from Pune, triggered alarm among locals and visitors earlier this month. The dam water had taken on a greenish hue, prompting swift action by the district administration and irrigation department, who collected and tested samples to rule out contamination. Authorities have now confirmed that the water has returned to its usual color and is safe for use.

Vikas Kharat, Sub-Divisional Officer of Bhor, said, “As soon as we were informed, our team inspected the dam site. There have been no complaints of illness from the nearby villages, and preliminary checks indicate that the water remains safe for consumption.”

The water discoloration was first observed on June 20 in one part of the reservoir. A senior irrigation department official attributed the sudden green tint to probable overuse of fish feed, which may have led to algae growth. “The visual change was limited and temporary. Water quality itself was not compromised,” the official clarified.

The Bhatghar Dam is linked to the Veer Dam system, which supplies drinking water to several regions across Pune, Solapur, and Satara districts. The unusual water color had sparked anxiety among local communities and tourists.

Officials from the irrigation department said the discoloration lasted two to three days before fading naturally. “We’ve reached out to the fisheries department’s assistant commissioner to investigate whether excess fish feed was introduced by licensed fishery contractors,” the official added.

While the cause is still under investigation, authorities have assured that the situation is under control and that no health hazards have been detected so far.