Indrayani River Pollution Resurfaces: Chemical Contamination Threatens Alandi’s Sacred Waters

Reported by Varad Bhatkhande

Alandi, 15th May 2024: After a temporary respite from pollution, the Indrayani River once again witnessed a resurgence of contamination on May 12 with a significant amount of foam appearing on the water’s surface. This foam has persisted for the past three consecutive days. A case has been filed against a scrap dealer in Jadhavwadi for releasing chemically contaminated water into the Indrayani River.

Originating from the Lonavala area, the Indrayani River flows through Alandi, traversing numerous villages and towns. A 19-kilometer stretch of the river passes through Pimpri-Chinchwad city. Chemical-laden water from industrial estates within the city, as well as from factories situated along the riverbanks, along with silty water from surrounding villages, is being discharged directly into the Indrayani River without any treatment. This discharge of dirty water is contributing to the pollution of the Indrayani River.

The Indrayani River holds significant religious importance, with lakhs of Varkaris bathing in its waters with great faith. However, the deteriorating condition of the river poses a danger to the health of the workers and villagers of Alandi. The river, already struggling with Hyacinth growth, is now further plagued by water pollution, evident from the foam visible on its surface. This pollution is believed to be caused by the release of chemical-laden water. Additionally, the water level in Alandi has risen over the past three days.

In response to the pollution incident, a case has been registered at Chikhali Police Station against Abdulmalik Abduljabbar Khan, the owner of Rehan Enterprises, a scrap dealer in Jadhavwadi, for polluting the river with chemical-laden water. It was discovered that sewage with a greenish-red hue from Khan’s warehouse was mixing with the Indrayani River. Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) conducted an inspection and sealed the scrap warehouse.

The health department is closely monitoring individuals who pollute the riverbed and release chemically contaminated water. Harvinder Singh Bansal, Executive Engineer of the Environment Department, stated that action has been taken to file cases against those responsible for releasing water into the riverbed.