Following the Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) outbreak linked to polluted water from the Khadakwasla dam, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has initiated a Rs 1,800-crore sewage treatment project across its 930 villages.

The move aims to ensure only treated sewage is released into rivers and reservoirs supplying Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. PMRDA Commissioner Yogesh Mhase said the metropolitan region has been divided into upstream and downstream zones for implementation. Priority is being given to the upstream areas—Haveli, Bhor, Mulshi, and Maval talukas, as treating sewage there will immediately improve water quality. Many urban localities currently lack sewage treatment plants, leading to contamination of the Mutha river and Khadakwasla dam.

The National Green Tribunal has taken note of the civic bodies’ failure to supply purified water. Meanwhile, the Centre will fund a new treatment plant at Vadgaon Budruk, and another is planned near the Khadakwasla dam.