Why In News:

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at 15 locations, including the residence of actor Dino Morea, in connection with a ₹65 crore scam in the Mithi River desilting project.

What is the Mithi River?

The Mithi River is a seasonal river flowing through the bustling heart of Mumbai, Maharashtra. Once a natural watercourse aiding flood management and urban drainage, it has today become a symbol of urban environmental neglect and a focal point of restoration efforts.

Location and Course

• Situated on: Salsette Island, Mumbai
• Function: Acts as a stormwater drain, carrying excess monsoon runoff from major Mumbai neighborhoods including Powai, Kurla, Saki Naka, Dharavi, Kalina, Vakola, and the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC).

Origin and Journey

• Origin: Begins with the overflow of Vihar Lake, later joined by runoff from Powai Lake.
• Length: Travels approximately 18 km through dense urban areas.
• Termination Point: Empties into the Arabian Sea via Mahim Creek, a vital estuarine ecosystem on the city’s western edge.

Hydrological and Urban Role

• The Mithi River is not fed by traditional tributaries but is formed by tailwaters and urban runoff from lakes and streets.
• It plays a critical role during the monsoon season by diverting floodwaters and reducing urban waterlogging.

Key Issues and Environmental Challenges

Severe Pollution

• Receives unchecked inflow of industrial effluents, untreated sewage, oil sludge, and municipal waste.

Encroachment and Urban Pressure

• Widespread illegal constructions, scrap yards, cattle sheds, and slum dwellings line its banks.
• These activities restrict water flow and accelerate siltation.

Ecological Degradation

• Water hyacinths, toxic silt, and chemical contamination have critically endangered aquatic biodiversity.
• Frequent flooding events, such as the July 2005 deluge, highlighted the river’s compromised state.

Call for Restoration

The Mithi River is a case study in urban planning gone awry, but also holds potential as a restoration model. Multiple civic initiatives, including desilting, beautification, and riverfront redevelopment projects, are underway to revive its ecological balance and restore public trust in Mumbai’s natural infrastructure.