The Indrayani River in Alandi, Maharashtra, continues to suffer from severe pollution, with toxic foam reappearing on its surface despite repeated assurances from state authorities.
This recurring issue has raised significant concerns among residents and the Warkari community, who consider the river sacred and rely on its waters for religious and daily activities.The latest incident occurred in early May 2025, when a thick layer of white foam was observed on the river’s surface, prompting immediate reactions from local residents and environmental activists. “The foam is a clear indication of chemical contamination,” said Nisar Sayyed, a member of the Avirat Foundation. “Despite numerous promises from the government, the situation remains unchanged.”
Authorities have acknowledged the issue, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde previously assuring that measures would be taken to address the pollution. However, these assurances have not translated into effective action, leading to growing frustration among the community. “We have been hearing promises for years, but nothing has changed,” said a local resident.The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has proposed a ₹545 crore plan to rejuvenate the river, including the construction of sewage treatment plants and the implementation of industrial effluent treatment measures. However, the plan is awaiting approval from the Union government’s National River Conservation Directorate, causing further delays.
In the interim, local authorities have taken limited actions, such as issuing notices to industries discharging untreated effluents and conducting inspections. Despite these efforts, the pollution persists, with reports of chemical-laden water being released into the river from various sources.The ongoing pollution not only threatens the health of the river but also poses risks to public health. Residents have reported cases of skin infections and other health issues linked to exposure to contaminated water. Additionally, the presence of foam and the death of aquatic life further indicate the deteriorating condition of the river.
As the Warkari community prepares for the upcoming Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage, which attracts lakhs of devotees to Alandi, the situation has become even more urgent. Devotees traditionally bathe in the river during the pilgrimage, but the current state of the water raises serious health concerns. “We cannot allow our sacred river to remain polluted,” said Vitthal Shinde of the Indrayani Seva Foundation. “We demand immediate action from the authorities.”
The Indrayani River’s pollution crisis underscores the need for coordinated efforts between state and local authorities, industries, and the community to restore the river’s health and preserve its sanctity. Without decisive action, the river’s future—and the well-being of those who depend on it—remains in jeopardy.
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Indrayani River Pollution Crisis Deepens in Alandi
