Pollution crisis overlooked amidst civic body poll

Despite the city’s deteriorating air and water quality, the problem of pollution has barely surfaced in the ongoing civic body election campaigns. Instead, candidates and their supporters are fixated on accusing each other of corruption and failures related to civic infrastructure development.

Narender Sirohi, an environmental activist, points out while pollution in the city has worsened over the years, both elected representatives and administrative bodies have failed to devise any comprehensive strategies or time-bound projects to address the growing menace. The city has earned the grim distinction of being one of the most polluted, not just within the country but across the borders, he added. He also claims numerous industrial and commercial units continue to discharge untreated pollutants into drains and open areas, with little action taken despite directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and numerous complaints lodged with the authorities.

Sirohi also highlights the illegal activities of over 100 units involved in dyeing and burning industrial residue, asserting that enforcement actions have remained largely symbolic.

AK Gaur, a resident, echoed similar concerns, citing problems such as poor waste collection and disposal, clogged sewage systems, broken roads and blocked drainage. He said untreated waste being released into open areas and canals has aggravated the pollution problem. The transportation of building materials in an uncovered manner and dust from poorly maintained roads have also contributed to the city’s environmental decline. Gaur lamented none of the candidates running for Mayor or municipal council positions had proposed any meaningful plans to tackle pollution in their manifestos. He also hinted at the possible involvement of politically influential figures in polluting activities.

Sumit Gaur, a leader of the Congress party, said curbing pollution would be a top priority if their candidate wins the mayoralty and gains a majority in the civic body. He blamed the decade-long BJP rule for the deterioration of civic amenities, citing problems such as choked and blocked drains that contribute to worsening pollution. In contrast, Mool Chand Sharma, a former minister and local BJP MLA, defended his party, claiming improving civic infrastructure and amenities had been a central promise in this election.

Meanwhile, work on the repair of many roads has come to a halt due to the Model Code of Conduct, which is currently in effect.

Faridabad Municipal Corporation Superintending Engineer Ombir Singh said efforts to maintain civic amenities, including waste disposal and cleanliness, were ongoing without any hindrance.