Pune: 500 Fish Found Dead in Dehu’s Indrayani River

Varad Bhatkhande

Dehu, 14th March 2024: The deterioration of the Indrayani River’s health is evident as witnessed on Wednesday (13th March) when approximately five hundred fish of diverse species were discovered lifeless in Dehu Gaon, a revered pilgrimage destination. Among the casualties were prized species like Golden, Putitora mahseer, and Shivda, each measuring about three and a half feet in length.

During a stroll along the Indrayani riverbanks at Dehu Gaon, concerned citizens stumbled upon the distressing sight of around five hundred dead fish at Kapurwada. While previously the river was home to species like Eels, Murrel, and Chilapi, it’s now noted that even rare species like Devamasa inhabit its waters. The revered Devamasa was among the casualties. The proliferation of waterfowl in the riverbed has hindered fish access to vital oxygen, driving them towards areas like Kapurwada, where aquatic life is scarcer. However, the untreated sewage discharged from the city into the river has drastically polluted the water, leading to decreased oxygen levels.

Social activist Somnath Musadge highlighted the escalating pollution, attributed to untreated sewage and rampant hyacinth growth, which is claiming the lives of aquatic animals. Urgent administrative intervention is imperative to curb river pollution.

Meanwhile, Aarti Dolas, representing the Divisional Commissioner’s Office, and Nivedita Gharge, Chief Chairperson of Dehu Nagar Panchayat, visited the site. Water samples were collected to investigate the cause of the fish mortality, with plans to submit them to the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board.

Sacred Indrayani Threatened by Pollution

The Indrayani River has a special place in Maharashtra’s history and culture. It’s considered holy and has been mentioned in stories about saints like Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar. But sadly, it’s now facing pollution issues. People are worried because fish are dying in Dehu and the river is foaming in Alandi. This river is important to many because of its religious significance.