“Everything happens on the ghats of the river. People take bath, wash clothes and perform ceremonies. The condition of the river is worsening,” said Deshmukh, emphasising that from Friday washing of clothes will not take place at the ghats.

Deshmukh’s directives follow the mission launched by citizens, shopkeepers, engineers, doctors and industrial workers from Pimpri-Chinchwad to clean Indrayani of its pollutants. The mission completed a year on Thursday with a function attended by many, including MIT president Vishwanath Karad and spiritual leader Narayan Maharaj Jadhav.

Deshmukh said while the ghat would remain out of bounds for washing clothes, residents would be provided space away from the river for the purpose. The collector said the ‘mutts’ in Alandi have also been asked to provide basic amenities like toilets.

Deshmukh, who went to Alandi to join the mission of cleaning the river said, “I have not come here to attend the function, but I want to join the mission.” He said he would put the government machinery in action in Alandi to clean the Indrayani river. “Whatever help the volunteers require will be provided. Whether equipment or vehicles, we all provide them all,” he said.