The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) is also in the process of deploying 80 former Armymen on the Godavari river bank to curb pollution. The ghats of the Godavari will also be declared a 'no washing zone' soon.

Pollution in the Godavari has become a matter of major concern. Releasing 'nirmalya' or puja flowers and items, washing clothes and vehicles causing pollution in the river add to the pollution. To avoid this, the NMC decided to deploy ex-Armymen on the banks of the river within the city limits.

Municipal commissioner Abhishek Krishna said, "We decided to act tough on the Godavari pollution issue, by imposing fines anywhere between Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000 for those polluting the river. Appointing 80 former army personnel to keep vigil at the Godavari river is also on the cards. They will keep watch to refrain people from indulging in activities adding to river pollution."

Krishna said that the Armymen will work in shifts. "We are fixing the spots where they will be deployed," the civic chief said.

Ramkund, Laxmankund, nearby areas and Godavari ghat areas will also come under the no washing zones under which activities like washing clothes or vehicles will not be allowed. This is likely to come into place by March end or next month.

In July 2012, the NMC's standing committee decided to recruit around 25 security guards to avoid pollution in the river. But, the decision did not work out. The municipal commissioner has now taken on the initiative to avoid activities that cause pollution in the river, with help from ex-service men.

Apart from this, the NMC will also crack the whip against those littering the roads and other city areas. "Vegetable vendors and hawkers are expected to dispose garbage in dustbins. We will take action against those found throwing garbage anywhere across the city and will impose fines starting from Rs 1,000."