Sewage seepage pollutes Sakodi stream, threatens Beas ecosystem

A serious case of sewage seepage has been reported from the Jail Road in Mandi district, where leaking sewer lines are contaminating the Sakodi Khad — a seasonal stream that feeds into the Beas. The situation has raised alarm among local residents, who are calling for immediate action from concerned authorities.

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According to locals, the problem has persisted for a long time. Despite multiple complaints, no permanent solution has been implemented. The leakage has polluted the Sakodi stream and caused damage to a nearby park that was under construction. Nearly Rs. 18 lakh had already been spent on developing the park, which now lies partially ruined due to wastewater seepage and overflow.

Jaswant Singh, a resident of the area, said the damaged park led to the rupture of an underground sewer line, resulting in the free flow of untreated sewage into the Sakodi stream. He also pointed out that a roadside sewer chamber is leaking continuously, discharging waste directly into the water body. “The foul smell is unbearable, and the pollution poses a major health risk,” Singh said.

Residents are demanding swift intervention from the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board, the Mandi Municipal Corporation and the National Green Tribunal. “This is not just a local problem — it threatens the sanctity of our rivers and public health,” Singh added.

The Municipal Corporation has reportedly alerted the Jal Shakti Department about the issue. Officials from the department have assured that remedial measures are being planned and will be implemented soon.

Environmental activist Narender Saini also raised concerns about untreated sewage entering water bodies, calling it a clear violation of environmental norms. As the Sakodi stream flows into the Beas, contamination here could have far-reaching consequences for both ecosystems and downstream communities.