Pune: Lonavala Municipal Council Faces Notice For Polluting Rivers By Discharging Untreated Sewage

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Pune, December 7, 2024 – The Lonavala Municipal Council has come under scrutiny for releasing untreated sewage into open drains, which eventually flows into two rivers, causing severe water pollution. This alarming issue was uncovered during an inspection by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), which has issued a notice to the council, warning of strict action.

Key Findings

Non-Operational Sewage Treatment Plant: The MPCB inspection revealed that the municipal council’s sewage treatment plant is non-functional. As a result, untreated sewage is being directly discharged into drains.
Impact on Rivers: The untreated wastewater from these drains is polluting the Indrayani and Ulhas rivers, posing a significant environmental threat.
Notice and Warning: The MPCB’s notice emphasized the council’s legal obligation to treat 100% of the sewage generated within its jurisdiction. Failure to comply may lead to legal action and penalties under the National Green Tribunal’s directives.

The council has not established a separate power connection for its sewage treatment plant, further hindering its operation.
The MPCB notice also questions why legal action should not be initiated against the council and responsible officials for violating pollution control norms.

Lonavala Municipal Council has been given 15 days to respond and submit a detailed action plan to ensure complete sewage treatment. The board has instructed the council to propose immediate and long-term measures to address the issue. Failure to provide a satisfactory response will result in legal proceedings.

Releasing untreated sewage into rivers violates environmental norms and court orders. The council must take urgent action to prevent further pollution and submit a 100% treatment plan/

This issue highlights the urgent need for infrastructure improvements to protect the environment and public health in the region.