Pune: Hinjawadi Residents Raise Alarm Over Mula River Pollution, Fear Water Crisis in Blue Ridge Township

Hinjawadi residents warn of polluted Mula River affecting Blue Ridge Township’s water supply, raising serious health concerns.

Pune | 23 March, 2026: Residents of Hinjawadi in Pune have raised serious concerns over a potential water crisis, alleging that pollution in the Mula River is affecting the water supply to the Blue Ridge Township. The issue has triggered fears of a public health emergency, as the river remains the primary and, in many cases, the only source of water for thousands of residents in the area.

According to a formal complaint submitted by residents on March 21, the township-home to nearly 15,000 people across around 5,000 flats-is witnessing a noticeable deterioration in water quality. Citizens have flagged multiple warning signs, including foul odour, yellowish discoloration, and the presence of red worms, scientifically known as chironomid larvae, which typically thrive in polluted and low-oxygen water bodies.

One of the major concerns highlighted is the excessive growth of water hyacinth in the river reservoir. This invasive aquatic plant has reportedly covered large portions of the water surface, disrupting natural flow, reducing oxygen levels, and contributing to the accumulation of organic waste. Experts warn that such conditions create an ideal breeding ground for harmful microorganisms and indicate severe ecological imbalance.

Residents have also expressed fears of microbiological contamination, including the presence of E. coli and coliform bacteria-commonly linked to sewage pollution. Under Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms, drinking water must be free from such contaminants, raising serious questions about the safety of the current supply.

The health risks associated with such contamination are significant. Locals have warned that continued use of polluted water could lead to water-borne diseases such as diarrhoea, typhoid, gastroenteritis, and skin infections. Vulnerable groups like children, elderly citizens, and those with weakened immunity are considered especially at risk.

Adding to the crisis, residents have pointed out that the heavy spread of hyacinth is also affecting the functioning of the jackwell pump, which is critical for drawing water into the township. Any disruption to this system could result in a severe shortage of water supply in the coming days.

This is not the first time concerns have been raised over pollution in the Mula River. Previous reports have highlighted issues such as illegal garbage dumping, untreated sewage discharge, and rapid urbanization contributing to the degradation of the river’s water quality in and around Hinjawadi.

Despite repeated complaints to authorities, residents claim that no concrete or long-term action has been taken so far. They have now urged civic bodies and environmental authorities to treat the matter as urgent and implement immediate measures, including removal of water hyacinth, comprehensive water testing, and deployment of purification systems. They have also demanded a long-term monitoring mechanism to prevent recurrence.

In conclusion, the situation in Hinjawadi underscores a growing urban challenge—balancing rapid development with sustainable resource management. As concerns over water safety intensify, timely intervention by authorities will be crucial to prevent a full-blown public health crisis and restore confidence among residents relying on the Mula River.

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