The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has escalated its enforcement efforts by issuing show-cause notices to eight local bodies across Pune, Satara, and Solapur districts. These notices, directed at municipal councils including Khadki Cantonment Board, Lonavala Municipal Council, and others, highlight severe concerns over their failure to prevent water pollution in rivers under their governance—specifically the Indrayani, Bhima, and Nira rivers.
According to MPCB officials, these local bodies have been accused of discharging untreated domestic effluents directly into the rivers or through various channels, significantly contributing to their pollution. The MPCB, acting under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974, has mandated that the municipal councils submit comprehensive action plans within 15 days. These plans must outline both short-term measures for immediate mitigation and long-term strategies aimed at treating 100% of the domestic effluents generated within their jurisdictions. The regional officer of MPCB has underscored the urgency of compliance, warning that failure to respond adequately will result in legal action without further notice. This includes potential prosecution of responsible personnel and imposition of maximum environmental compensation, underscoring the seriousness of environmental violations in these areas.
An MPCB official from Pune reiterated the board’s commitment to environmental protection, emphasizing that while necessary regulatory actions have been initiated, it is imperative for the local bodies to take swift and effective measures to curb pollution. The official further indicated that proposals are being forwarded to MPCB’s head office in Mumbai to seek permission for prosecution against non-compliant municipal councils. This development comes at a critical juncture, with the upcoming annual Palkhi procession drawing attention to environmental stewardship in Maharashtra. The MPCB’s proactive stance underscores the importance of sustainable development practices and regulatory compliance in safeguarding the region’s water bodies. In response to these notices, local administrations are expected to mobilize resources and expertise to devise robust pollution control strategies, ensuring that river ecosystems are preserved and protected for future generations. The outcome of these measures will not only determine the environmental health of the affected rivers but also set a precedent for municipal governance in managing water resources responsibly across Maharashtra.
