Namami Indrayani: Modifications in the River Rejuvenation Project Plan!

Pimpri-Chinchwad : In a significant development for environmental conservation in the Pimpri-Chinchwad region, the municipal administration has agreed to revise the draft plans of the Mula, Pavana, and Indrayani river rejuvenation projects. Instead of prioritizing beautification efforts, the revised plans will now include measures focused on preventing pollution and restoring ecological balance. This move marks a major success for environmental groups and voluntary organizations from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad who have been actively advocating for sustainable solutions. (River Rejuvenation Project Plan!)

Over the past two months, environmentalists and civil society organizations have been protesting against flaws in the existing river rejuvenation plans. They raised concerns about the lack of focus on pollution control and ecological sustainability. Acknowledging the merit of these suggestions, BJP MLA Mahesh Landge pressed the municipal authorities to incorporate them into the official project framework. The administration responded positively and has begun updating the project plans accordingly.

The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has already drafted a rejuvenation plan for the Indrayani River with the aim of reducing pollution. The project will receive financial support under the central government’s AMRUT scheme, and technical clearance has been granted by the Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran (MJP).

However, in light of the feedback from environmental activists and voluntary organizations, the PCMC is now revising the Indrayani River Rejuvenation Project. These changes, guided by AMRUT scheme standards, will ensure the inclusion of sustainable, eco-friendly measures. The revised project plan will soon be submitted to the Urban Development Department of the Maharashtra state government for administrative approval. This has been officially communicated in writing to MLA Mahesh Landge by the PCMC’s Environment Department.

Work Halted at Pimple Nilakh Site

Meanwhile, a joint initiative between Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporations under the Mula River Rejuvenation Project was underway from Wakad Bypass to Sangvi Bridge (Phase 1), focusing on pollution control and flood mitigation. However, construction near the Pimple Nilakh crematorium site was met with opposition from environmental groups and local NGOs. In response to public complaints and environmental concerns, technical experts are being consulted to reassess the project’s impact in that area. As a result, work at the site has been temporarily suspended until further notice.

“The river rejuvenation project is being undertaken to reduce pollution in the city’s vital rivers. It is essential for the well-being of the citizens and public health. Environmentalists and NGOs rightly suggested including measures such as sewage treatment plants, biodiversity parks, tree replantation, and afforestation instead of focusing only on beautification. The administration has accepted these recommendations. Through state government support, we are committed to implementing a sustainable and long-term river rejuvenation plan.”
– Mahesh Landge, MLA, BJP, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune