Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: In a strong push towards river rejuvenation and environmental restoration, the civic chief of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has directed the immediate removal of all encroachments from the Sukhna riverbed, warning officials to take strict action against illegal structures obstructing the natural flow of the river. The directive was issued after an on-site inspection of the river stretch, where authorities reviewed ongoing restoration work.
During the inspection, the civic chief stressed the need to restore the river’s natural flow and eliminate all obstructions, instructing municipal teams to identify and remove encroachments without delay. Officials were also asked to take action against those releasing untreated sewage into the river, with specific instructions to trace the sources of pollution, including industrial discharge points, and coordinate with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board for enforcement measures.
The civic administration has also expressed concern over polluted water entering the Sukhna river, directing strict monitoring of both residential and industrial discharge. Authorities have been asked to ensure that no untreated waste is released into the river system, and to initiate sealing action wherever violations are found.
Encroachment Removal Drive Intensified Across Riverbed
The order comes as part of a broader effort to clear riverbed encroachments and improve flood management in the city. Officials noted that illegal structures along the Sukhna river have contributed to restricted water flow and environmental degradation. The civic body has already been conducting demolition drives in phases, and the latest directive is expected to accelerate the removal process.
The administration has also been instructed to carry out detailed mapping of the riverbed, clearly marking restricted zones such as red and blue line boundaries, to prevent future illegal construction. The civic body has been working on similar river restoration initiatives for other water bodies in the city as part of long-term ecological planning.
Mass Plantation Drive Scheduled on World Environment Day
In a parallel environmental initiative, the civic chief announced a large-scale plantation drive along the Sukhna riverbanks on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day. The programme aims to improve green cover, stabilise riverbanks, and enhance biodiversity in the region.
Officials stated that the plantation drive will involve mass participation from civic staff, environmental groups, and local residents, with the objective of strengthening ecological balance along the river corridor. Native tree species and bamboo plantations are expected to be prioritised to support long-term riverbank conservation.
Focus on River Rejuvenation and Pollution Control
The Sukhna river restoration project is part of a larger mission to improve urban water bodies in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Authorities have highlighted that uncontrolled encroachments and sewage discharge have been major challenges affecting river health over the years.
Officials believe that combining encroachment removal, pollution control, and afforestation efforts will help revive the river ecosystem and reduce the risk of flooding in low-lying areas. The civic administration has also indicated that similar drives may be extended to other rivers in the city as part of a comprehensive environmental improvement plan.
With the latest directive, the municipal corporation has stepped up enforcement, signaling a more aggressive approach toward river conservation, illegal construction removal, and environmental protection, while the upcoming plantation drive is expected to mark a symbolic and practical step toward restoring the Sukhna river’s ecological balance.
