Pune: PCMC Inaugurates 3 Million Liters per Day Sewage Treatment Plant to Combat Indrayani River Pollution

Pimpri Chinchwad, 2nd March 2024: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has recently inaugurated an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) with a capacity of three million litres per day at Kudalwadi. This initiative aims to address and mitigate pollution in the Indrayani River. The wastewater treatment process has commenced, effectively preventing the discharge of chemical and contaminated water into the river.

A report from the National River Conservation Directorate (NCRD) raised concerns about the pollution levels in the Indrayani River, attributing it to the release of chemical water, oil, and grease from industrial facilities, warehouses, and unauthorized businesses in areas like Chikhali, Kudalwadi, and Jadhavwadi. In response to these concerns, the PCMC took action by clearing encroachments along the drains in Kudalwadi and Jadhavwadi, making way for the establishment of ETPs. This strategic move is a significant step toward improving the water quality and environmental health of the Indrayani River.

PCMC has taken proactive measures by directives from the National Green Tribunal and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). A sewage treatment plant, capable of treating three million litres of water daily, has been established at Kudalwadi. As part of this initiative, PCMC aims to provide treated water free of cost to builders and citizens, fostering a reduction in dependence on the river for non-drinking purposes.

To facilitate the distribution of treated water, arrangements have been made to fill tankers within five minutes. PCMC’s Additional Commissioner, Vijayakumar Khorate, emphasized that the successful implementation of the Effluent Treatment Plant represents a crucial stride in combating river pollution, underscoring the PCMC’s commitment to prioritizing river protection. Furthermore, plans include the establishment of an ETP on a drain along the Pavana River too as part of the broader river improvement project.