Pune: Minister Pankaja Munde announced on Friday that the state govt will prioritise cleanup of rivers listed as the most polluted nationally under the newly formed River Rejuvenation Authority.The announcement came during Munde’s visit to pumping stations at Talawade near Indrayani river and Ravet near Pavana river. The inspection followed concerns raised by local MLAs in the state assembly regarding the deteriorating condition of these water bodies. Munde was accompanied by Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) officials, the mayor, and MLAs Mahesh Landge and Shankar Jagtap.Addressing the media, Munde stated that the rejuvenation plan for Indrayani river is nearing completion. “We are currently analysing whether the pollution stems primarily from domestic sewage, industrial discharge, or chemical effluents. This assessment will form the basis of a comprehensive strategy to ensure Indrayani and other rivers across the state are made pollution-free,” she said.The minister highlighted that the state cabinet recently approved the River Rejuvenation Authority to tackle water pollution systematically. She emphasised that waterways identified by national agencies as critically polluted will receive immediate attention and corrective measures.During her visit, Munde observed that while many industries have installed sewage treatment plants (STPs), several units are non-functional due to poor maintenance. She directed the authorities to take stringent action against such offenders. The minister also instructed the PCMC and other civic bodies to immediately remove encroachments along riverbanks and ensure that all housing societies operate functional STPs.Addressing the issue of ready mix concrete (RMC) plants violating environmental norms, Munde confirmed that the environment department is already shutting down non-compliant units. However, she clarified that these plants may resume operations once they meet the required standards. “Our objective is not to shut down businesses permanently, but to ensure they operate responsibly without damaging our environment,” she said.
