Seechewal Demands Action on Buddha Dariya Pollution, Slams PPCB
Rajya Sabha member Balbir Singh Seechewal visited the Buddha Dariya drain in Ludhiana today. He inspected the stretch from Bhukhari Khurd village to the Central Jail area. This visit forms part of an ongoing campaign to clear pollution from the water body.
High-Level Review Meeting Held
Later, Seechewal presided over a high-level review meeting at the 225 MLD sewage treatment plant. He expressed strong displeasure over several critical issues. These included the dumping of cow dung and excrement into the drain by local dairies.
He also highlighted the theft of electricity despite official disconnections. Illegal encroachments along the river banks were another major concern raised. Seechewal directed serious questions at the performance of the Punjab Pollution Control Board.
PPCB Held Responsible for Drain Condition
Holding the PPCB directly responsible, Seechewal stated the Buddha Dariya would not be in its current state if the board had acted promptly. He issued a stern warning to authorities and anyone polluting the sacred water body.
Seechewal emphasized that the Buddha Dariya is associated with Guru Nanak Dev. He asserted that the ongoing kar sewa to clean the drain will continue until it becomes completely pollution-free.
Deadlines and Directives Issued
Reminding PPCB officials, Seechewal noted the deadline for major industrial units to achieve zero discharge is December 31, 2025. He directed them to submit an immediate report on this matter.
During the meeting, drainage department officials reported identifying 62 illegal encroachments on the river banks. They confirmed that strict action has already been initiated against these violations.
Administrative Actions Discussed
Seechewal also spoke directly with the deputy commissioner via phone during the proceedings. Additional Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation, Paramdeep Singh, provided updates.
Singh announced that work to collect cow dung from the Tajpur and Haibowal dairy complexes will commence within the next fifteen days. This step aims to address one of the key pollution sources highlighted in the meeting.
