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Rs 2.56 Crore Fine for Pavana River Polluters
21 Sep
Summary
- Four industrial units fined over Rs 2.56 crore for river pollution.
- Pollution occurred between 2024 and 2026, MPCB investigation reveals.
- River rejuvenation faces funding hurdles; sanitation gaps persist.
Four industrial units located along the Pavana River have been identified by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) for allegedly discharging untreated effluent. Consequently, environmental damage compensation totaling over Rs 2.56 crore has been calculated against them. This action is part of an ongoing case before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) concerning pollution in the Pavana River.
An MPCB affidavit indicates that one unit faces a proposed compensation of Rs 1.71 crore, while the other three are liable for Rs 62 lakh, Rs 20 lakh, and Rs 3 lakh, respectively. These units are suspected of contributing to pollution between 2024 and 2026. Officials noted that during recent inspections in July, two of these units were again found to be non-compliant, prompting the initiation of calculating additional compensation.
The NGT has directed that all four companies be formally included in the ongoing case. The tribunal emphasized that any environmental damage compensation should only be imposed after the companies have been given a fair opportunity to present their arguments. The case highlights broader issues of pollution control and infrastructure deficiencies along the river.
The broader legal proceedings stem from a petition alleging failures by various authorities, including the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, to adequately curb Pavana River pollution. The river, classified as a Priority I polluted stretch, is a crucial drinking water source for the region. While PCMC has a rejuvenation plan, funding remains a significant obstacle, as state government funds are unavailable and it does not qualify for national conservation programs.
Furthermore, the NGT's inquiries have exposed inadequate sanitation infrastructure in villages adjacent to the river. Many villages lack proper waste management systems, sewage treatment plants, and basic sanitation facilities like soak pits or leach pits. In response, the Zilla Parishad has reported progress on installing these systems in 20 villages, with work completed in 11 and ongoing in others, though facing delays due to hard-rock conditions and land issues.
