Haryana Pollution Committee Issues Strict Directives to Protect Yamuna Canal
The Haryana Vidhan Sabha's Environment Pollution Subject Committee has taken a firm stand against water pollution, issuing a categorical directive on Friday that no untreated sewage or industrial effluent should be discharged into the Yamuna canal or any other water body under any circumstances. This decisive action underscores the committee's commitment to safeguarding vital water resources for current and future generations.
Environmental Protection as a Public Health Imperative
The committee emphasized that environmental protection is directly linked to public health and the safety of future generations, stressing that it must not be treated as a mere formality. This perspective highlights the critical importance of maintaining clean water sources as a fundamental aspect of community well-being and sustainable development.
Comprehensive Inspection and Review Process
The directions were issued during an extensive inspection of key projects and sites in the Yamunanagar-Jagadhri twin city area. The inspection was led by committee chairman and Kosli MLA Laxman Singh Yadav, with committee members Ghanshyam Dass Arora (MLA, Yamunanagar), Akram Khan (MLA, Jagadhri) and Ram Kumar Kashyap (MLA, Indri) accompanying him throughout the process.
Before the field inspection, the committee held a high-level review meeting at the office of Yamunanagar deputy commissioner Preeti. This meeting included senior officials from the Municipal Corporation, Public Health Engineering Department and Irrigation Department. During this session, the committee sought detailed information on the functioning of sewage treatment plants (STPs), solid waste management systems and disposal of industrial wastewater.
Specific Site Inspections and Directives
The committee's inspection began at the Kail Solid Waste Management Plant, where members reviewed segregation, processing and disposal mechanisms. Additional municipal commissioner Dheeraj Kumar, executive engineer Narendra Suhag and assistant engineer Rakesh June briefed the committee about infrastructure upgrades, including sheds, concretisation of the ground, machinery-based waste processing and RDF generation. The committee directed officials to maintain high standards of cleanliness, machinery upkeep and environmental compliance at this facility.
At Old Hamida Head, the committee examined the condition of flowing water and possible pollution sources, while also seeking details about adjoining vacant land. Officials informed the committee that a grand park would soon be developed there at a cost of Rs 6.14 crore, potentially creating a recreational space while addressing environmental concerns.
The committee also inspected the Saraswati Sugar Mill STP, directing that industrial effluent must be released only after complete treatment as per prescribed standards, with regular monitoring and strict oversight to ensure compliance.
Crucial Infrastructure Projects Under Review
At Jammu Colony, the committee reviewed progress of the under-construction 77 MLD sewage treatment plant, terming it a crucial project for the city. Chairman Laxman Singh Yadav noted that once operational, the plant would enable scientific treatment of urban sewage and significantly reduce the pollution load on the Yamuna canal and other water sources.
Emphasis on Coordination and Enforcement
MLA Ghanshyam Dass Arora emphasized the importance of inter-departmental coordination, directing regular audits of all treatment plants, periodic water quality testing and immediate action against any negligence. MLAs Akram Khan and Ram Kumar Kashyap also underscored the need for strict enforcement of environmental regulations and continuous inspections to maintain water quality standards.
Throughout the inspection process, officials were instructed to complete all pending works within stipulated timelines and ensure strict adherence to environmental norms. The committee's comprehensive approach demonstrates a serious commitment to addressing water pollution through both infrastructure development and regulatory enforcement.
