Pune: PCMC Instructed to Revise Application: SEIAA Stresses Ecological Balance in River Project

Pimpri Chinchwad, 6th March 2024: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has been directed by the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority(SEIAA) to submit a fresh application for the revival of the Pavana and Indrayani rivers flowing through Pimpri Chinchwad city. The SEIAA emphasized the importance of ensuring that the carrying capacity of the rivers is not reduced, and the restoration efforts should focus on purifying the rivers and achieving ecological balance.

The SEIAA instructed the PCMC to seek verification from the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) before submitting the new application. The rivers in question include Pavana, Indrayani, and Mula, with a combined length flowing through the PCMC limits. PCMC has allocated a total of INR 3,506 crores for the revival project of these three rivers. The first phase, covering the development of the Mula River from Wakad Bypass to Sangvi Bridge, is set to be funded by a loan bond of INR 200 crores, issued on July 27, 2023. The overarching goal of the project is to revitalize the rivers while maintaining their carrying capacity and ecological balance.

The implementation of the River Rejuvenation Project in Pimpri Chinchwad requires the approval of the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) of the Maharashtra State Government. Initially, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) had applied for permission, but it was rejected. The key concerns raised were ensuring that the river’s carrying capacity is not reduced, avoiding an increase in flood levels, and focusing on river purification without compromising ecological balance. The Central Water and Power Research Center (CWPRS) has been tasked with verifying these aspects.

In response to the SEIAA’s instructions, PCMC has conducted the necessary verification, rectifying any errors as pointed out. The application for approval will be resubmitted, taking into account the verification by CWPRS. Environmentalist Sarang Yadwadkar welcomed this decision, emphasizing that CWPRS verification ensures accuracy in the river revival process. Sanjay Kulkarni, Joint City Engineer in the PCMC’s Environment Department, confirmed that the errors have been rectified, and the application for approval will be submitted accordingly.