Panvel: Poultry waste, cattle remains and other refuse dumped into the Gadhi River at Shivansai in Panvel taluka have raised concerns over water pollution, public health and the livelihoods of local fishermen.

A large quantity of poultry waste, feathers and cattle remains was found beneath the Shivansai-Gadhi river bridge and in the riverbed on October 21. The river is used by local residents to wash clothes and by children for bathing, while fishermen depend on it for their livelihood.

Residents have complained of a foul stench and deteriorating water quality, making routine activities difficult. Fish deaths and damage to fishing nets have also been reported, raising concerns over the impact on fishermen’s earnings.

Locals have alleged that illegal slaughterhouses and poultry traders dump waste into the river at night. The allegations have prompted demands for an investigation and action against those responsible.

Shiv Sena (Shinde) Panvel Taluka Deputy Chief Vishwas Patil, taluka organiser Dinesh Mandavkar and Nere division chief Vidyadhar Chorghe have submitted a written complaint to the police and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, seeking immediate intervention.

They have demanded an on-site inspection, an official panchnama, cleaning and disinfection of the affected riverbed, and increased police patrolling at night to prevent further dumping.

The complaint calls for accountability and stricter monitoring to curb pollution and protect residents who depend on the river. The allegations against those suspected of dumping waste are yet to be independently established.