Civil society leads

THE Buddha Nullah in Ludhiana, once a lifeline for Punjab, has deteriorated into a toxic drain. Years of unchecked industrial effluents, untreated sewage and lax governance have turned this tributary of the Sutlej river into a health hazard. Despite numerous court orders and a commitment of Rs 840 crore for its rejuvenation, the government’s efforts remain largely ineffective, leaving civil society no choice but to act. The Kale Pani Da Morcha, representing frustrated citizens, on Tuesday staged protests targeting dyeing units discharging pollutants. Their actions spotlight the blatant non-compliance by three Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs), which continue to release harmful waste despite orders for zero liquid discharge. The Punjab Pollution Control Board and civic authorities have been slow in enforcing penalties or upgrading infrastructure, further eroding public trust.

Adding to the chaos is the confrontation between activists and industrial workers, highlighting the socio-economic complexities of environmental regulation. Thousands of livelihoods depend on these industries, but public health cannot be the collateral damage. The authorities must ensure that economic growth aligns with sustainable practices.

The establishment of a joint task force by the Centre and the Punjab Government is a positive, though belated, step. Immediate priorities should include upgrading CETPs, expediting the Gaughat pumping station and sealing all 120 pollution points identified in recent surveys. A comprehensive action plan involving stringent monitoring and community participation is critical. Residents of Ludhiana and downstream regions continue to suffer from the polluted water as their health and farming are affected. The time for symbolic protests has passed; it is now imperative for all stakeholders — government, industries and civil society — to unite for tangible action. A clean Buddha Nullah is not just an environmental goal but a fundamental human right.