Urban News

The agency had begun the experiment in December last as untreated waste is being dumped in the 18 km-river through 43 drains along its stretch. It had rented out an oxygen infusion device called DynamOx from the US-based Environmental Consulting Technology Inc. (ECT), which has been applying this technology effectively in River Rogue in Michigan and other water bodies in the US. The technology and other expertise are being shared under the memorandum of cooperation signed between the US and India.

“The pilot project has been successful. The stench has reduced considerably; the breeding of mosquitoes has also come down. Now, either the NEERI or the IIT-B will carry out an independent survey to establish it scientifically,” metropolican commissioner Ratnakar Gaikwad told Newsline.

“DynamOx oxidises about 15 gallons of water every minute, and runs round the clock. The device will not only help reduce stink but also help fish habitation,” an official said.

The development authority plans to develop the six-km stretch of the river under its maintenance as an eco-tourism spot. The officials hope that the pollutants in the water will reduce gradually and help create life in the river. Meanwhile, the development authority is working out the cost of replicating the project in the entire stretch under its maintenance. “We’re expecting the final report in another 10 days, following which the project will be replicated in the entire stretch,” said Transport and Communication Division chief PRK Murthy.