Paithan’s ₹50-cr sewage project set to cleanse Godavari within a year

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The stretch of the Godavari river flowing through the holy city of Paithan in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar is set for a major environmental turnaround. A multi-phased project aimed at stopping the direct discharge of wastewater into the river is currently underway, with the construction of an 8 MLD (million litres per day) capacity sewage treatment plant (STP) in full swing. Revered as 'South Kashi,' the temple town of Paithan draws a massive influx of devotees year-round. While thousands take a holy dip in the Godavari, the river's health has long been a concern due to the direct release of untreated municipal wastewater into its waters. Pallavi Ambhore, chief executive officer of the Paithan Municipal Council, stated that the project involves a comprehensive overhaul of the city's waste management, including laying of extensive drainage lines and centralised treatment at the new STP. "Currently, wastewater in Paithan is not collected effectively," Ambhore said. "Under the new system, it will be channelled through an underground drainage network and diverted to the STP for necessary treatment before disposal." The Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran (MJP) is executing the project, which carries a total cost of approximately ₹50 crore. According to a senior MJP official, the work is now in its third and final phase. "The first two phases focused on laying the underground drainage infrastructure. We are now in the third phase, which involves the construction of the STP and allied works. We expect the entire project to be completed within the next 12 months," the official added. Once operational, the project is expected to significantly reduce the pollution levels of the Godavari, ensuring a cleaner environment for both residents and visiting pilgrims.