In response to findings by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which identified 55 rivers in Maharashtra as polluted, the state government has approved the formation of the Maharashtra State River Rejuvenation Authority (MSRRA).

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis granted the nod after Environment Minister Pankaja Munde presented a detailed proposal to address river pollution through a structured and sustainable approach. The MSRRA will be tasked with preparing and implementing action plans for the rejuvenation of polluted rivers. Responsibilities will include approving detailed project reports (DPRs), river basin management plans, and resolving critical issues like land acquisition, encroachment, and power supply.

The authority will prioritize rivers based on Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels—Mithi  with 50 mg/L, Surya at 11 mg/L and others including Bhatsa, Kalu, Ulhas and Vaitarana as among the most polluted. The state generates 9,190 million litres of sewage daily, but only 4,928 million litres are treated, leaving 4,262 million litres discharged untreated into rivers.

MSRRA will be chaired by the CM, withteh Environment Minister as Vice-chair. A parallel executive committee under Minister Munde will include experts from IIT Bombay, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, and financial/legal advisors.