Mumbai cracks down on illegal cattle sheds to save its polluted rivers

Mumbai authorities are stepping up efforts to clean up polluted rivers across the city. Illegal cattle sheds and untreated waste have long been major sources of contamination, prompting action from local leaders and officials. Recent moves include relocating buffalo sheds, constructing treatment plants, and penalising unregistered operations.

As of early 2026, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has identified 1,247 illegal buffalo sheds along rivers like the Mithi and Dahisar. Of these, 856 have faced enforcement actions, including demolitions and fines. Minister of State Madhuri Misal ordered the relocation of sheds along the Dahisar, Poisar, and Oshiwara rivers to reduce pollution. Alternative land has been secured, and financial provisions are in place to support the move.

Notices have been issued to cattle shed operators along riverbanks, with relocation efforts now underway. BJP MLA Manisha Choudhari highlighted untreated cattle waste and illegal constructions as key contributors to river pollution. Penal action has also begun against unregistered sheds.

On the infrastructure side, two sewage treatment plants for the Dahisar River are complete and will start operating by March 31, 2026. Nine of the ten proposed plants for the Poisar River are under construction. Additionally, five treatment facilities for the Oshiwara and Walbhat rivers are in progress.

MLA Yogesh Sagar criticised the slow pace of rehabilitation, calling for stricter deadlines to remove illegal cattle sheds. Assembly Speaker Adv. Rahul Narwekar also directed the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board to submit a report on preventing river pollution within a week.

The combined efforts—relocating sheds, building treatment plants, and enforcing penalties—aim to reduce river pollution in Mumbai. Authorities have set clear timelines for infrastructure projects and legal actions, with ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance.