District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandar issued clear instructions at a key meeting in Ghaziabad on Monday. He told the environment department to map all polluting sources entering the Hindon River. Officials must now submit weekly reports on this critical issue.
Coordinated Effort for River Cleaning
The DM directed the environment department to work closely with irrigation officials. Their immediate task involves ensuring timely cleaning of all drains that flow into the Hindon. At least ten major drains currently empty their contents into the river within Ghaziabad's limits.
Persistent Pollution Problems
Treatment plants exist along the river, but none operate at their full capacity. This failure effectively means all of the city's sewage gets dumped directly into the Hindon. The problem is not new.
In 2024, reports highlighted toxic industrial effluents entering the river from the Tronica City Apparel Park. This waste included civic and electronic debris. Earlier, a 2022 report from the UP Pollution Control Board identified 310 industrial units polluting the Hindon across districts. A significant majority, 220 of these units, were located in Ghaziabad itself.
Most of these polluting industries were involved in pulp processing, tanning, and dyeing operations.
Broader Directives for Environmental Management
DM Mandar's orders extended beyond water pollution. He instructed concerned officials to remove encroachments, particularly in areas prone to flooding.
Dust Control and Compliance
The environment department received another crucial task. Officials must register as many ongoing construction projects as possible on the official Dust Control App. The DM mandated penalties for institutions failing to operate according to established environmental standards.
Mandar also directed all departments to nominate nodal officers on the ‘Sameer' portal. A strict timeline was set: resolve all public complaints registered there within one week.
All departments must now provide factual reports. These reports require supporting evidence like photographs and precise GPS readings.
Focus on Greenery and Plantation
While reviewing the District Plantation Committee, the DM turned his attention to greenery. He directed all implementing departments to complete verification of existing plantation sites promptly.
Mandar asked officials to inspect their respective areas. The goal is to identify suitable land for new plantation drives ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.
The monthly review meeting covered the District Ganga Committee, District Environment Committee, and District Plantation Committee. The directives aim for a multi-pronged approach to tackle Ghaziabad's pressing environmental challenges.
