The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has imposed a substantial fine of Rs 17.1 crore on Vadgaon Nagar Panchayat for failing to set up sewage treatment plants (STPs). As a result, untreated sewage water has been released directly into the Indrayani River, leading to significant water pollution.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had earlier directed all local bodies to commission their STPs by March 31, 2021. The directive also stipulated that those missing the deadline would incur penalties of ₹10 lakh per month for each STP starting from April 2021. Despite these clear instructions, Vadgaon Nagar Panchayat did not comply, which resulted in the heavy penalty.
In an affidavit submitted to the NGT, the MPCB stated that the total environmental compensation amounts to ₹17.1 crore. Furthermore, the Board officially informed Vadgaon Nagar Panchayat about the assessment and the requirement to pay this amount through a letter dated September 12, 2025.
This issue traces back to a February 2024 news report that revealed toxic foam floating on the surface of the Indrayani River in Pune. The disturbing visuals prompted the NGT to take suo-motu action, holding civic bodies accountable for pollution caused by untreated sewage discharge.
Officials from MPCB emphasized that despite several reminders, untreated domestic waste continues to flow into the river. One official remarked, “This is not just a legal issue, it’s a matter of public health and respect for our natural resources.”
The MPCB has urged Vadgaon Nagar Panchayat to immediately complete the installation and operation of its sewage treatment plants to prevent further damage to the river and avoid additional penalties.
The Board also highlighted that safeguarding rivers and the environment is a shared responsibility. It called upon citizens to actively participate in environmental protection initiatives, including projects under the ‘Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)’ initiative.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pune-mpcb-slaps-171-crore-fine-on-vadgaon-nagar-panchayat-for-failing-to-set-up-stp