Made progress in rejuvenation of Buddha Dariya: Minister Arora

The High-Level Committee (HLC) for the Rejuvenation of Buddha Dariya reported major strides in restoring the ecological health of the water body. They said nearly 90 per cent of the decisions taken between July and August had already been implemented.

Constituted by the Punjab Government on July 14, 2025, the HLC is chaired by Industries and Commerce Minister Sanjeev Arora, with the chief secretary as vice-chairperson. It includes senior officials from key departments, IIT-Ropar and Ludhiana’s district administration.

Key achievements include the completion of a Rs 650 crore infrastructure up-gradation project, full operation of the Gaughat Intermediate Pumping Station and resolution of slope and drainage issues. An NIH-Roorkee study confirmed no under-capacity in existing STPs.

On dairy waste, Arora said a zero-discharge policy was now fully implemented, with door-to-door collection active. FIRs were registered against 21 illegal discharge points. Of 76 illegal dairies outside city limits, 71 had been shut down.

In waste-to-energy, a 200 MTPD CBG plant was operational, while HPCL’s 300 MTPD plant was under construction, he added. PEDA has facilitated clearances for further investments.

CETPs of 15, 40, and 50 MLD are now PPCB-compliant for BOD/COD levels. The TWIC is preparing a roadmap for advanced effluent management. Digital mapping and inspections of electroplating units are underway, with legal action being initiated against violators.

IIT-Ropar is conducting source apportionment studies, with digital tracking of pollution sources and the initial findings are due this month, the report stated.

Arora noted that BOD levels have dropped from 155 to below 50 mg/L, COD from 400 to 150 mg/L, and TSS from 300 to Rs 150 mg/L—marking significant improvement.