Maharashtra river rejuvenation body gets cabinet nod with multi-crore funding plan

The Mithi river, as seen from Kranti Nagar in Kurla East. PIC/SATEJ SHINDE

Rivers across Maharashtra that are heavily polluted may soon see a major clean-up push, after the state cabinet on Wednesday approved the setting up of the Maharashtra State River Rejuvenation and Management Authority (MSRMDA) to restore them. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (2025) data, India has 296 polluted river stretches, and Maharashtra alone accounts for 54 of them, including the Mithi, Mula-Mutha, Bhima, Pavana, Nag, Chandrabhaga, and Panchganga.

Pvt participation

The MSRMDA will also be assisted by environmental groups and organisations like the Bombay Natural History Society and the Mangrove Cell. Besides, public awareness and people's participation will also be a key part of the effort.

MSRMDA members

The CM will head the body, while the environment minister will be the vice-chairperson. Key ministers from finance, urban development, water resources, industries, and rural development will also be part of it. Also, a dedicated secretariat will support the authority in its functioning.

Role of authority

The new authority will act as the main decision-making body to clean and restore these rivers. Work will be taken up in phases, with focus on reducing sewage, controlling industrial waste, and preventing encroachments along riverbanks. The authority will ensure better coordination between departments, land acquisition where needed, and solving issues like power supply and contracts that often delay such projects.

Project funding

Rs 2000 CR
To be raised through the pollution control board

Rs 1000 CR
Approved initial contribution of the government

10 per cent
of the total revenue from minor mineral mining will be given to the authority every year

CSR and financial institutions can also contribute