PAC Demands Strict Enforcement of Zero Liquid Discharge Norms

Ludhiana, January 12: The Buddha Dariya Action Front (BDAF), under the Public Action Committee (PAC), convened at IPS Transport Nagar to draw attention to the alarming pollution caused by the open drain near Shingar Cinema and Old IPS Gaughat. The meeting, led by environmental activist Advocate Yogesh Khanna, marked Phase 5 of the Buddha Darya Padyatra.

The activists highlighted that untreated industrial waste and sewage discharged through the open drain are severely impacting the Buddha Dariya Rejuvenation Project. They claimed industrial units, particularly dyeing units from Industrial Area-A and its extensions, are dumping chemical-laden wastewater into drains without proper treatment. Many of these units bypass mandated effluent treatment plants, leading to the release of hazardous pollutants, including acids and heavy metals, they alleged.

Activists including Advocate Shripal Sharma, Anita Sharma, Dr. VP Mishra, Mahinder Singh Sekhon, Dan Singh Oshan, Manjinder Singh Grewal, and Col CM Lakhanpal were present on this occasion.

Environmental activist Col. CM Lakhanpal (Retd) stated that the waste merges with drains originating from Transport Nagar and Dukhnivaran Gurdwara Sahib at the Gaughat Cremation Ground before flowing towards the Buddha Dariya. Despite the presence of a temporary pumping station diverting the wastewater to a sewage treatment plant, the infrastructure is inadequate to handle the volume and toxicity of the effluents, he added. Activists warned that the sewage treatment plant is at risk of overloading, which could result in further environmental damage.

Advocate Khanna called for immediate action to implement permanent solutions, including the strict enforcement of zero liquid discharge norms for industries. He emphasised that temporary measures are insufficient to address the crisis and urged authorities to expedite the development of industrial pollution control infrastructure.

PAC members reiterated the need for sustainable growth and public cooperation to prevent further degradation of the environment. They announced plans for continued efforts under Phase 6 of the Buddha Darya Padyatra to raise awareness and demand accountability.

PAC appealed to citizens and stakeholders to join hands in combating industrial pollution, preserving natural resources, and ensuring a healthier future.

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