Pune: Thousands of Fish Found Dead In Indrayani River Ahead Of Ashadhi Wari, Raising Pollution Concerns
Pune: Thousands of Fish Found Dead In Indrayani River Ahead Of Ashadhi Wari, Raising Pollution Concerns
Pune, June 15, 2026: A large-scale fish mortality incident has been reported in the historic Indrayani River at Dehu, reigniting concerns over river pollution just days before the annual Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage.
Dead fish have reportedly been found in the river over the past two days, but the situation escalated on Saturday when hundreds of fish were seen floating in the water and washing up along the riverbanks and ghats. The incident has caused concern among residents and devotees in the temple town associated with Sant Tukaram Maharaj.
The development comes at a crucial time, as lakhs of Warkaris are expected to arrive in Dehu for the Ashadhi Wari Palkhi procession. The ghats along the Indrayani River are frequently used by pilgrims for ritual bathing and religious practices, giving the river immense spiritual significance.
The sight of large numbers of dead fish in a river regarded as sacred has once again brought the issue of pollution in the Indrayani into sharp focus. Residents have expressed concern over the deteriorating environmental condition of the river, especially during a period of heightened religious activity.
Several dead fish were seen floating on the river’s surface, while many others were washed ashore, leading to a foul smell in the surrounding area. The situation has also raised public health concerns among local residents.
On Saturday evening, volunteers from the Art of Living Foundation launched a cleanup drive to remove dead fish from the river. Beginning around 5 p.m., volunteers spent several hours collecting and disposing of the fish in an effort to maintain cleanliness and prevent potential health hazards caused by the decaying carcasses.
Local residents also joined the effort and assisted in cleaning the riverbank areas.
The Indrayani River has been at the center of pollution-related concerns on multiple occasions in recent years. Environmental activists, social organizations, and local citizens have repeatedly demanded stronger measures to protect and restore the river’s health. However, many residents believe that little progress has been made, allowing similar incidents to recur.
The latest fish kill has intensified calls for authorities to investigate the cause of the mortality and take immediate steps to address pollution in the river before the arrival of thousands of pilgrims for the Ashadhi Wari festivities.
