Rivers in Himachal Pradesh face crisis: NGT steps in

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has indeed been active in directing states to maintain the ecological flow of their rivers. In a directive from 2015, the NGT ordered all states to maintain a minimum environmental flow of 15-20% of the average lean season flow in their rivers.

The NGT's action follows a suo motu cognizance of the alarming pollution levels, prompted by a news report titled "Ashwini Khad: The most polluted river of Himachal Pradesh," published in News Himachal on December 4, 2023. The report highlighted Ashwani Khad in Shimla as the most polluted river in the state, primarily due to sewage treatment plants releasing waste.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board's assessment at 136 locations across 37 rivers in the region, disturbing trends in water quality have been observed. The Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) parameters at 19 locations in nine rivers exceed prescribed pollution standards.

Notably, Ashwani Khad, Bald of Baddi, Giri of Sirmaur, Markanda of Rampur, Pabbar of Rohru, Ratta of Nalagarh, Shikari Khad of Rohru, Sarsa of Nalagarh, and Sukhna Khad of Parwanoo were identified for failing to meet pollution standards.

The pollution in Ashwani Khad is attributed to the discharge of effluents from sewage treatment plants, with the BOD level increasing from 70 mg per liter in 2022 to a concerning 80 mg per liter in the latest assessment.

The contamination of rivers in Himachal Pradesh is linked to unregulated disposal of industrial effluents, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff. This pollution poses a serious threat to public health, agriculture, biodiversity, and has led to a rise in waterborne diseases.

Recognizing the Tribunal's authority to take suo-motu action, the NGT directed the Chief Secretary to submit an affidavit within four weeks, outlining a timeline for the implementation of the action plan. The Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board has reported that a draft plan for the rejuvenation of all nine rivers is underway, with ongoing discussions on its implementation, overseen by the Chief Secretary.

The NGT's directive emphasizes the urgency of addressing the pollution issue in Himachal Pradesh, highlighting the potential threats to residents' health and the environment. The matter is scheduled to be reviewed on February 26, 2024.

Keep Reading

• Indigenous Communities In J&K Struggle With Increasing Lightning Risks To Livelihoods
• Bhopal: Street Vendors Still Pay Illegal ‘Fees’ Despite CM’s Directive
• Monsoon Disasters Increased In Uttarakhand In Last Four Years, Claim 213 Lives

Follow Ground Report for Climate Change and Under-Reported issues in India. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Koo App, Instagram, Whatsapp and YouTube. Write us on [email protected].