Ghaziabad: The quality of Hindon river, a tributary of Yamuna river which originates in the Saharanpur, has become a matter of grave concern as many local residents residing along the banks of the river are consuming groundwater which is contaminated, thus posing a threat to their health.
Hindon, also known as Harnadi, is a rain-fed river, once popular for rich marine life, has today become 'dead'. The water of the river has turned 'black' and is even unfit for household purposes.
It was believed that the water of the river was so clean and pure that people used it for household and daily chores. But today with industrialization, setting up of mills and factories and massive scale urbanisation, the quality of the water has gone down due to regular release of hazardous and toxic chemicals. Kabar fish and turtles have now become a rare sight.
According to a report submitted by National Green Tribunal(NGT)-appointed Committee on solid waste management last year, at least 40% of people living along the banks of Hindon river are at a high risk of water-borne diseases. The report also said that the industries and hospitals of the city are not following the environmental norms, thus making the dissolved level of oxygen in the river equivalent to zero.
"Earlier, we used to see various types of birds, ducks and cranes along the river bank. But today, it's difficult. The river is getting polluted as waste materials from drains and factories are dumped into it", said a local.
Asked about what steps should be taken by the govt, he added, "Proper sewage treatment plants should be set up and the water should not be directly diverted into the river. After the locals of the area raised the issue, NGT has slapped Rs 20,000 fine for the dumping of toxic waste and effluents into the river.
He added, "Uttar Pradesh government is also regularly monitoring the situation and have appointed senior officers for the same. We are also taking steps to create awareness."
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However, at present with no on-going operations in factories, Hindon river has heaved a sigh of relief, reducing the foul smell of the river. Thanks to Covid-19 induced lockdown!
But with the industries resuming operations after two months of lockdown, the river has once again become a dumping ground for sewage waste.
Earlier, directives were issued to the district administration to start a demolition drive in the river catchment area but it yielded no fruitful results. The government should step in and impose strict rules and regulations to make the river water at least 'fit' for bathing and other domestic purposes.
Along with the government, individuals should also put in efforts to maintain the quality of the river by co-operating with the government. With World Environment Day's theme 'celebrating biodiversity', it's a message for us to address the concern at the earliest.
The present situation of the environmental crisis should be taken seriously. It's high time that human beings should reconsider their relationship with nature and take adequate steps to preserve biodiversity.
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