Nagzari nala in the city, which used to be a fresh source of water in the era of Peshwas, is in a pathetic condition.
A study conducted by a student of Bhanuben Nanavati College of Architecture (BNCA) on the nala highlights how apathetic attitude of the civic body and citizens has killed this fresh water stream and how it can be rejuvenated.
Geeta Nagarkar, a post-graduate student of BNCA, traced the source of the nala in the Gangadham hills and Salisbury Park areas and followed its flow to the river. It passes through Market Yard, Timber Market and Kasba Peth areas.
She took samples from these places and found that the nala water was among the most polluted in the city as it is surrounded by slums. About 6 MLD (million litres per day) of sewage is discharged from three slums near the nala.
Geeta also found out that concretisation on its banks has resulted into further damage as rainwater cannot percolate. The nala bed is used for solid waste dumping which has resulted in chocking at various points.
“The water near Timber Market is very polluted. Lack of sanitation facilities in the slums has damaged the nala. Open defecation is also degrading the environment. As its water carries all the sewage and solid waste, a sewage treatment plant (STP) is installed at the place where it flows into the river,” said Geeta.
“A garden has been developed over the nala at Ghasati Bridge which should not have been permitted as it obstructs the flow of water,” she added. The study also indicated that how regulation of development of townships and other constructions is important to keep the nalas in the city clean.
As corrective measures, she suggests that instead of concretisation, plants and trees which help absorb pollutants need to be planted along the nala. She stressed on the need of protecting sources of all the streams and nalas in and around Pune.
“Urbanisation is destroying the hills. They need to be preserved if the nalas are to be saved. Proper solid waste management system, community level soak pits, decentralisation of STPs, providing adequate storm water drainage and other corrective measures can help save the nalas,” she said.
Geeta is also part of the team which is carrying out a study on preserving and redeveloping heritage structures of the city.
