What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
The National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) recent reprimand of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) over the severe pollution levels in the Ganga River in Bihar is a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective action. The tribunal’s findings that 750 million litres of untreated sewage are flowing into the Ganga daily, rendering the water unsafe even for bathing, highlight the gravity of the situation.
The Ganga holds immense cultural, spiritual, and economic significance for millions of Indians. It is not just a river but a lifeline that supports agriculture, industry, and livelihoods. However, the river’s current state is a far cry from its revered status. The high levels of faecal coliform and other pollutants have made the water hazardous, posing serious health risks to the communities that depend on it.
The NGT’s criticism of the NMCG’s lack of effective action is well-founded. Despite the establishment of sewage treatment plants (STPs), there remains a significant gap between sewage generation and treatment capacity. The tribunal noted that while the estimated sewage generation in Bihar is 1,100 million litres per day, the completed STPs can only handle 343 million litres per day. This leaves a staggering 750 million litres of untreated sewage flowing directly into the river.
The NMCG’s response, which included meetings and communications, fell short of the decisive action needed to address this crisis. The tribunal’s directive for the NMCG to file a fresh affidavit outlining actionable steps is a step in the right direction, but it must be followed by tangible results. The involvement of the principal secretary of Bihar’s environment department as a respondent underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for coordinated efforts at both the state and national levels.
To effectively tackle the pollution in the Ganga, a multi-pronged approach is required. First and foremost, there must be a significant increase in the capacity and efficiency of STPs. This includes not only building new plants but also ensuring that existing ones are fully operational and compliant with environmental standards. The use of advanced technologies for sewage treatment and real-time monitoring of water quality can help in achieving this goal.
Public awareness and community involvement are also crucial. The success of any clean-up initiative depends on the active participation of local communities. Educational campaigns to inform people about the importance of keeping the river clean and the health risks associated with pollution can foster a sense of responsibility and ownership. Additionally, stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent industrial discharge and illegal dumping into the river is essential.
The Ganga Action Plan, launched in the 1980s, was one of the earliest efforts to clean the river. However, its limited success highlights the need for a more comprehensive and sustained approach. The current situation calls for a renewed commitment to the cause, with clear timelines and accountability mechanisms in place.
