Pune: State Government Orders Inquiry into Riverfront Development Project
Pune, 25th April 2026: The state environment department has ordered an inquiry into alleged violations linked to Pune Municipal Corporation’s Riverfront Development (RFD) project along the Mula-Mutha rivers.
In a communication dated April 13, the department directed the Pune municipal commissioner, the chief engineer of the water resources department, and the regional officer of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to conduct joint site inspections and submit a detailed report.
The probe follows a complaint by environmentalist Sarang Yadwadkar, who alleged that the project violates multiple conditions attached to the environmental clearance granted on November 12, 2024.
According to the complaint, one of the key clearance conditions required strict compliance with a May 3, 2018 circular of the water resources department, which bars any alteration to the river’s cross-section or carrying capacity. Yadwadkar alleged that the project has narrowed sections of the riverbed and reduced the width of the channel, affecting its flood-carrying capacity. He also claimed that consultants relied on lower flood-level figures than those scientifically recorded by the Maharashtra Engineering Research Institute (MERI).
The complaint further states that changes proposed across the 44-km project stretch could increase flood risks by reducing the river’s natural flow space.
The environment department has directed that the complainant be included during site inspections and related meetings. Ganesh Sonune from PMC’s environment department said the civic body would comply with the directions and inspections would be carried out shortly.
The Riverfront Development project covers 44 km of the Mula and Mutha rivers. While the project proposes public amenities, promenades, and recreational spaces, it has faced opposition from environmental groups seeking a review of further expansion.
Civic officials said nearly 90 per cent work on the 3.7-km priority stretch between Sangamwadi and Bund Garden has been completed. Work is also underway on other stretches, including Bund Garden to Mundhwa and Aundh to Balewadi.
