Water pollution in UBDC goes unchecked

The festive season in the city has brought attention to a pressing issue, the discharge of worship materials into the Upper Bari Doab Canal (UBDC) now a days. Large quantities of waste, including garlands, clothes, plastic waste and sacks, are being thrown into the canal, particularly at Taran Wala Pul on the GT Road and the Sultanwaind road bridge. This littering has increased during the festival season, with residents dumping earthen pots, puja materials, and plastic items into the canal.

Unfortunately, this practice undermines efforts of Baba Kashmir Singh and Dera Kar Sewa Bhuri Wale to beautify the canal. Despite volunteers’ attempts to raise awareness, local residents have not stopped polluting the water body. What’s more, many are unaware that disposing of such materials in a water body is an offence. As per the rules, the offenders would face a fine of Rs 50,000. The authorities concerned do not take action against a single person.

Residents concerned about environmental issues said that lack of awareness among public and government inaction keep this practice alive. “It is a major blow to the environment to dump plastic in the water bodies. Plastic waste and non-biodegradable materials harm aquatic life and crops. Due to lack of awareness, many residents are unaware of the offence and its consequences. The government inaction encourages them to pollute the canal. The district administration’s failure to take action aggravates the problem. The community engagement is required. Raising awareness and involving local communities is crucial to addressing this issue,” said Param Kaur, an environment activists.

Locals, however, continue to defend their actions, citing that materials are biodegradable and not harmful to the canal.

Davinder Singh, a farmer, said the purpose of the canal is irrigation and plastic waste damage crops and the environment. With the government planning to provide surface water from the UBDC to residents, it’s crucial to address this issue.

“To mitigate the problem, it’s essential to educate residents about the environmental impact and collaborate with local organizations,” said Sandeep Singh, a resident of Focal Point area.