Untreated Sewage Discharge Chokes Drainage System in Pune's Hinjewadi IT Park
In Pune, untreated sewage discharge from drainage pipes operated by the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) in Phase 2 of Hinjewadi IT Park is causing significant environmental and infrastructural issues. The discharge, allegedly originating from nearby companies and housing societies, is choking underground pipes and severely obstructing pre-monsoon maintenance work by authorities.
MIDC Issues Letter to PMRDA for Action
Rajendra Totla, executive engineer at MIDC, stated that the companies and housing societies responsible for the discharge are located in an area under the jurisdiction of the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). Consequently, MIDC has issued a formal letter to PMRDA, urging them to take immediate steps to halt the untreated sewage release.
During site inspections at three locations over the past fortnight, MIDC officials observed that sewage from plot holders in PMRDA areas is being released into storm water chambers managed by the industrial corporation. This has resulted in a pervasive foul smell throughout the area, leading to frequent complaints lodged with MIDC.
Critical Infrastructure at Risk
The discharge is causing 900mm-diameter cross drainage underground pipes to become choked, posing a serious threat to the drainage system. An anonymous MIDC official explained, "Companies in the PMRDA area discharge sewage from an elevation, causing it to run downhill and block drainage chambers operated by MIDC. The drain pipes were obstructed despite it not being monsoon season, and the foul odor prevented workers from entering to inspect and repair the pipes."
The official emphasized the urgency of cleaning all drainage lines before the monsoon arrives, especially considering the severe waterlogging experienced in the area last year. MIDC has also requested PMRDA to take disciplinary action against the offending companies and housing societies for the untreated discharge.
Historical Waterlogging Issues Exacerbated
The underground pipeline near Doehler Chowk in the IT park, which faced severe flooding in 2025, is particularly affected. These drain pipelines were originally installed to mitigate waterlogging caused by runoff from elevated areas flowing onto roads. However, MIDC officials now report that drainage is flowing into these pipes, compounding the problem.
In recent years, Hinjewadi IT Park has witnessed severe waterlogging even after moderate rainfall. This issue stems from the diversion of several underground streams and nullahs due to rapid development, leading to rainwater runoff accumulating on roads. Key routes often experience waterlogging as storm water drains overflow or remain clogged with debris and construction waste.
The current sewage discharge crisis threatens to worsen these existing challenges, highlighting the need for coordinated action between MIDC and PMRDA to ensure effective drainage management and prevent further environmental and infrastructural damage in the IT park.
