Urgent action required for Basantar River Pollution Crisis

04/12/2024

The persistent pollution of the Basantar River in Samba district is a glaring example of environmental neglect that requires immediate and decisive action. Despite explicit directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and repeated assurances from the government, there has been a concerning lack of progress in formulating and implementing a comprehensive pollution abatement strategy. This inaction has allowed untreated sewage and industrial effluents to continue polluting this critical tributary of the Ravi River, with severe consequences for the environment and public health. Several years ago, the NGT took a strong stance by imposing aRs 5 crore penalty on the Jammu and Kashmir State Industrial Development Corporation (SIDCO) for its failure to prevent industrial waste from contaminating the river. Additionally, the Samba Municipal Council was fined Rs 10 lakh for not establishing a sewage treatment plant, which is essential to stop the discharge of untreated sewage. Despite these penalties and clear directives, the necessary actions have not been taken, highlighting a significant gap between policy and implementation.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has identified a five-kilometer stretch of the Basantar River, from Samba to Chak Manga Rakwal, as polluted. This designation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental degradation occurring under the oversight of local authorities. Although SIDCO has installed four Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), their efforts have been insufficient without the implementation of complementary sewage treatment solutions. This failure to address the pollution effectively reflects poorly on the governmental bodies responsible for environmental protection. The continued pollution of the Basantar River not only threatens local ecosystems but also poses significant health risks to the communities dependent on this water source. Contaminated water can lead to a range of health issues, including waterborne diseases, which further strain local healthcare systems.
To address this crisis, a coordinated and transparent action plan is urgently needed. This plan should involve the immediate establishment of sewage treatment facilities, stricter enforcement of industrial waste management, and continuous monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental standards. Furthermore, there must be a concerted effort to engage and involve local communities. Community participation can drive more effective and sustainable solutions, ensuring that those most affected by the pollution have a voice in the remediation process. In addition, government agencies must improve their accountability and transparency. Regular progress reports and open communication with the public are vital to rebuilding trust and ensuring that promises are translated into action. Collaborations with environmental NGOs and experts can also provide valuable insights and resources to tackle the pollution problem more effectively.
The time for mere announcements has passed. It is imperative that the government and relevant agencies move beyond rhetoric and take concrete steps to restore the health of the Basantar River. The health of our rivers is a reflection of our commitment to the environment and future generations. Let this be the moment we choose action over inaction, and preservation over pollution. The future of the Basantar River and the well-being of the communities it sustains depend on our actions today.

Photo Gallery

BSE Sensex

NSE Nifty