Panchaganga River | 10 Mar 2025

Why in News? 

The Maharashtra government has appointed a panel, led by the executive engineer of the Kolhapur irrigation department, to investigate the causes of pollution in the Panchaganga River. 

 Key Points 

  • State's Response to River Pollution Concerns: 
    • The State Environment Minister provided a written response on the causes of pollution and the death of fishes in the Panchaganga and Warna rivers. 
  • Pollution and Fish Deaths in Warna River: 
    • Recently, dead fish were found at Bhadole and Chikurde along the Warna River. 
    • The inspection revealed that untreated effluent from sugar mills caused the pollution. 
    • The Warna Cooperative Sugar Mill was identified as the source of untreated sewage discharge during that period. 
  • Action Taken Against Polluters: 
    • Officials conducted an inspection in December 2024 to assess the pollution levels. 
    • Based on the findings, the government imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh on the sugar factory responsible for the pollution. 
  • Investigation Panel: 
    • To further investigate pollution in the Panchaganga River, the government appointed a panel which will examine the sources of pollution and recommend corrective measures. 

 Panchaganga River 

  • About: 
    • It is a major tributary of the Krishna River, flowing through Maharashtra. 
    • The river originates from Prayag Sangam in the Sahyadri mountain ranges. 
    • Its birthplace is Chikhlee Taluka, a small village in Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. 
    • It is formed by the confluence of five rivers—Kasari, Kumbhi, Tulsi, Bhogawati, and Saraswati. 
    • The river flows for approximately 80 km before merging with the Krishna River in Maharashtra. 
  • Spiritual and Agricultural Importance: 
    • The river holds immense spiritual significance, with its banks lined with numerous temples and shrines. 
    • The Panchaganga valley is highly fertile, producing rich winter crops. 
    • The river's water is extensively used for sugarcane cultivation.