Toxic foam reappears in Pune's Pavana River

Citizens in Pune are worried about toxic foam appearing in the Pavana River. This is the second time this week that such foam has been reported. The foam was seen floating near Kejubai Band, a spot where fish deaths have occurred in the past due to pollution. Environmental activists are demanding action against untreated sewage that is harming the river. A similar foam issue was reported in the Mula River a few days earlier. Residents feel that local agencies, including the Pollution Control Board, are not doing enough to resolve the ongoing pollution problem. Last year, the Pavana River was recognized as one of the most polluted rivers in India. Activists say untreated wastewater from industries is a major cause of the pollution in the river. They argue that there are only a few companies responsible for this issue. Sanjay Kulkarni, head of the environmental department at PCMC, explained that the foam is caused by large amounts of water being discharged, mixed with detergent. He mentioned that inspections have started, and water samples will be tested in a lab to identify the problem further.