The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has launched a comprehensive initiative to monitor and mitigate pollution in Indrayani River during Aashadhi Wari pilgrimage. A 24×7 monitoring and sampling of the river water, sewage treatment plants (STPs), and related industries has been implemented. This continuous surveillance of the river will be carried out to identify and address pollution.
The initiative also emphasises the need for maintaining the water quality of natural water bodies to protect aquatic life and public health. It would also address the public concern towards foam formation and water hyacinth growth in the river.
Additionally, MPCB has also issued recommendations for pollution control. These include the regular removal of siltation at dams to allow the natural flow of the river, upgrading existing STPs to meet prescribed discharge standards, and ensuring local bodies reserve funds for the installation and maintenance of sewage treatment facilities. Besides, public awareness campaigns will also be launched focusing on the prevention of river pollution.