MPCB Issues Notice to Pune Municipal Corporation as Thousands of Dead Fish Found Near Naik Island

Pune:

Thousands of dead fish were discovered last week near Naik Island in the Mula-Mutha River, triggering alarm over the deteriorating water quality of the river. In response, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) collected water samples from the site for testing. Preliminary findings confirm that the fish deaths were caused by severe pollution, prompting the MPCB to issue a notice to the PMC demanding immediate action.

The fish mortality incident has placed a spotlight on the PMC’s alleged negligence in managing sewage disposal. According to reports, untreated sewage from the Naidu Sewage Treatment Plant, located close to the affected site, is directly discharged into the river daily. This untreated effluent, laden with pollutants, has been identified as the primary cause of the water contamination and subsequent fish deaths. In its notice, the MPCB has instructed the PMC to adopt urgent and effective measures to address the issue.

Sources reveal that PMC releases approximately 90 million litres per day (MLD) of untreated sewage into the Mula and Mutha rivers. This long-standing practice has not only worsened water pollution but has also contributed to the ecological degradation of the river. Officials reported that untreated sewage from multiple drains near the Naidu facility flows directly into the river, turning the water black, emitting a foul stench, and creating hazardous conditions for aquatic life.

A joint inspection of the Naidu Sewage Treatment Plant and the surrounding riverbanks was conducted by officials from MPCB and PMC. During the inspection, dead fish were observed along both sides of the river. It was evident that sewage from three nearby drains was bypassing treatment and flowing directly into the river, exacerbating pollution levels.

The findings also highlight delays in PMC’s infrastructure projects. The outdated Naidu Sewage Treatment Plant has been demolished, but construction of its replacement remains incomplete. Consequently, untreated sewage continues to flow into the river unabated.

Commenting on the incident, Jaishankar Salunkhe, Divisional Officer of MPCB Pune, stated, “Dead fishes were found near Naik Island. We conducted a thorough investigation, and the report confirms that pollution is the primary cause. A notice has been issued to the Pune Municipal Corporation to take corrective measures on this.”