CM directs DCs to prevent Yamuna pollution, boost flood control steps

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has issued orders to all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to ensure that no polluted effluents or sewage water enter the Yamuna. He also directed them to take immediate steps to desilt drains and canals across the state to prevent waterlogging during the upcoming monsoon season.

Chairing the 56th meeting of the Haryana State Drought Relief and Flood Control Board, the Chief Minister reiterated the state’s commitment to permanently clean the Yamuna. He instructed the DCs of Panipat, Sonepat, Palwal, and Yamunanagar to establish Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) to stop the discharge of untreated sewage into the river. Additionally, he called for a review of the functioning of the six STPs at Masani Barrage in Rewari and ensured their proper maintenance.

Highlighting the importance of flood control infrastructure, Saini directed officials to construct stone studs, stone steining, remodelling of drains, permanent pump houses, and pipelines in low-lying areas to prevent flooding. He ordered a thorough review of all flood control structures across Haryana, instructing Deputy Commissioners to survey existing stone studs and ensure their timely repair.

To improve accountability, the Chief Minister proposed creating an online portal to track these structures. He warned that any negligence found in maintenance would result in strict action against the responsible contractors, including registration of FIRs.

The CM also ordered the desilting and repair of all major canals in the state. He instructed officials to prepare a priority list of pending projects and ensure their completion before June 30. The Haryana State Drought Relief and Flood Control Board has approved 352 schemes amounting to Rs 657.99 crore for flood control.

Short-term projects, including procurement of pumps and flood control measures, will be executed immediately, while medium and long-term schemes proposed by the Irrigation and Water Resources Department will be reviewed in a pre-flood meeting in May.

In a bid to conserve water, Saini urged farmers to switch from water-intensive crops like paddy to alternative crops. He suggested launching awareness drives and rewarding panchayats that promote crop diversification. He also recommended producing a short film or video to spread awareness about sustainable agricultural practices.

With these initiatives, Haryana aims to tackle water pollution, prevent flooding and promote water conservation, ensuring long-term environmental sustainability.