The Maharashtra government is considering setting up a special authority to improve the management of river infrastructure projects in Pune, amid growing concerns over pollution, delays, and coordination issues.
The proposed authority is expected to oversee key initiatives related to the Mula-Mutha River system, including sewage treatment plants, riverfront development, and pollution control measures. The move comes after existing agencies struggled to effectively manage untreated sewage discharge and project execution timelines.
Officials noted that several major projects under national and international funding programs have faced delays, with infrastructure gaps continuing to impact river health. Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad currently face a shortfall in sewage treatment capacity, contributing to ongoing environmental challenges.
The new authority is expected to bring centralised planning, technical expertise, and better coordination among multiple civic bodies involved in river-related projects. However, environmental experts have raised concerns, suggesting that strengthening existing institutions may be more effective than creating additional administrative layers.
The proposal reflects the government’s attempt to address long-standing river pollution issues while ensuring timely execution of infrastructure projects critical to urban sustainability.
