Pune: Bhatghar Dam Water Turns Green, Causes Panic; Officials Explain Reason

Pune: Panic spread among residents after the water in Bhatghar Dam near Pune suddenly turned green. The unusual color change, visible over the past 4-5 days, raised concerns about water safety in surrounding villages that rely on the dam for drinking water supply.

Locals reported that a greenish layer forms on the water surface during the morning and persists until the afternoon. The phenomenon was particularly noticeable along the northern banks of the dam and near villages like Sangamner, Malwadi, and Narhe.

According to residents, private contractors engaged in fish farming at the dam could be responsible. They suspect that the fish feed used in the cages is altering the water’s appearance.

Balwadkar

भोर तालुक्यातील भाटघर धरणातील पाण्याला अचानक हिरवा रंग आल्यामुळे नागरिकांमध्ये चिंता आणि भीतीचे वातावरण निर्माण झाले आहे. गेल्या चार ते पाच दिवसांपासून धरणाच्या पाण्याचा रंग बदलल्याचे स्पष्टपणे दिसत आहे… #PuneNews #ViralVideo #MarathiNews #BhatgharDam pic.twitter.com/xpKe0tMJQH

— Harish Malusare (@harish_malusare) July 22, 2025

Taking serious note of the issue,  water samples have been sent for laboratory testing. Instructions have also been given to initiate immediate measures to remove the green layer from the dam.

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The fish feed used in cages contains high levels of nitrogen, which accelerates algae growth in the water, giving it a greenish hue. However, this situation is temporary and usually resolves naturally after some time.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have appealed to residents to remain vigilant until water safety is confirmed. 

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