Garbage ‘rivers’ on the rise in Hamirpur

Rivers and tributaries in Hamirpur district, known for their crystal-clear water, are turning into rivers of garbage due to official apathy. The lack of concern from the relevant departments has not only deteriorated the water quality, but also led to outbreaks of epidemics in the recent past.

The three major tributaries, Maan Khud, Kunah Khud, and Bakar Khud, are polluted due to neglect, unscientific mining, and regular dumping of garbage. Maan Khud flows through Barsar town and Nadaun, providing water to over 100 villages, while Kunah Khud, the longest tributary of Beas River, covers over 60 kilometres and serves as a major source of water for over 150 villages. Bakar Khud originates from the hill near Samirpur and merges with the Beas River near Sandhol.

Local residents have expressed concerns over the deteriorating water quality. Ramesh Chand from Rangas village said, “No one is bothered to check the water quality that is supplied by Jal Shakti Vibhag.” Saroj Kumari from village near Nalti added, “The khud that had clear water is now flowing with stinking water.” She added that a garbage from treatment plant near Hathali Khud in the upstream was also cause of water contamination in Kunah Khud.

Kuldeep Kumar from Pansai village attributed the water contamination to various factors, including illegal mining, open defecation, and neglect of people.

Anil Joshi Member, secretary of Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board, said the government had prepared plan for the upkeep of rivers and their tributaries. He added that since there are water supply schemes of the JSV department, officials are entrusted the responsibility to keep the water sources clean.

Neeraj Bhogal, Superintending Engineer of JSV, assured that every care is taken to ensure the quality of the water supplied from the water schemes of the district. He added that the water quality is checked on a regular basis in the labs of the department. He said latest techniques and equipment were installed by the department to monitor the water quality. He asserted that public health was on priority of the department.