Effluent samples fail tests in Barhi, Pollution Board issues show-cause notice to HSIIDC

The Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has issued a show-cause notice to the Haryana State Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC) after effluent samples collected in Barhi industrial area failed laboratory tests and two common effluent treatment plants (CETPs) were found non-compliant.

According to officials, the 10 MLD and 16 MLD CETPs were operating without valid Consent to Operate (CTO) and without mandatory authorisation under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016.

A joint inspection team of HSPCB and HSIIDC officials, led by Ajay Malik, Regional Officer, HSPCB, conducted a surprise inspection on October 24 at the final effluent discharge point and both CETPs. The inspection revealed that effluent was being discharged into Drain No. 6 through an underground pipeline at Bhogipur village.

The team collected samples from the final discharge point, which was carrying the entire effluent load. Officials noted the effluent had a brownish colour and foul smell. During the inspection, local farmers complained that they had been facing severe problems due to stinking water for the past four to five years, alleging that untreated effluent was often released during late evening and night hours.

Laboratory analysis showed all parameters exceeding prescribed limits. At the discharge point, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) was recorded at 42 mg/l against the permissible 30 mg/l, Total Suspended Solids (TSS) at 182 mg/l against 100 mg/l, oil and grease at 22.5 mg/l against 10 mg/l, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) at 2,180 mg/l against 2,100 mg/l and sulphide at 36 mg/l against the limit of 2 mg/l.

At the 16 MLD CETP, which was found non-functional, BOD was recorded at 36 mg/l, TSS at 132 mg/l, oil and grease at 12.5 mg/l, TDS at 2,330 mg/l and sulphide at 40 mg/l. The BOD levels at the 10 MLD CETP also exceeded permissible limits.

In its show-cause notice to the Senior Manager and Manager of HSIIDC, Barhi, the HSPCB referred to directions issued by the Environment Minister, Chief Secretary and HSPCB authorities to strictly stop illegal discharge into public sewers and stormwater drains connected to the Yamuna.

HSIIDC has been asked to submit its reply within 15 days.