Pune’s Mula-Mutha River Issues Reach Delhi: Rejuvenation Project to be Completed by 2026

This monsoon, the flooding of Pune’s Mula-Mutha rivers has become a widespread concern, stirring discussions in households across the city. The situation, exacerbated by heavy rains and water releases from the Khadakwasla dam, has caused significant impact, including political disputes, encroachments along the river, and disruptions to road traffic. The urgency of these issues has now reached the national capital, New Delhi.

On Monday, in the Rajya Sabha, Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil addressed these concerns, assuring that the Mula-Mutha River Rejuvenation and Cleanliness Project will be completed by 2026. This statement was in response to BJP MP Medha Kulkarni’s questions regarding the decreasing groundwater levels in Pune and the use of illegal boreholes for water supply. Minister Patil highlighted that while groundwater management primarily falls under the state government’s jurisdiction, the central government is actively implementing measures to enhance groundwater levels, with positive results already evident.

The ambitious Mula-Mutha River project, which has received funding from Japan, is set to cost Rs. 990 crores. The central government will cover 85% of this expenditure, with the state government contributing the remaining funds. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched this initiative on March 6, 2022, and since then, 40% of the work has been completed, with Rs. 415 crores already spent.

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As part of the project, 11 water purification centers will be established, capable of treating 96 million liters of water daily. Additionally, a 53-kilometer-long network of sewage channels will be constructed to ensure thorough cleanliness of the river. Minister Patil reiterated the commitment to completing this crucial project by 2026, aiming to restore the Mula-Mutha rivers and significantly improve the quality of life for Pune’s residents.

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