Activists call for unity and discipline to address decades-long environmental crisis

Kale Pani Da Morcha Urges Peaceful Unity for December 3 Campaign in Ludhiana
Buddha Dariya has been polluted for decades in Ludhiana

Ludhiana: The ‘Kale Pani Da Morcha’ is garnering support from various organisations for its December 3 call to action to plug outlets and connections of dyeing industries allegedly discharging effluents into the Buddha Dariya. Commonly referred to as the Buddha Nullah due to its severe pollution levels, the waterbody has become a symbol of unchecked environmental degradation.

A significant gathering is anticipated to participate in the movement, which, according to the organisers, aims to address the critical issue of pollution.

The members of the Morcha have made an appeal to the public, urging everyone to maintain peace and discipline during the December 3 event.

Speaking live on a social media platform, Jaskirat Singh, a representative of the Kale Pani Da Morcha, said, “The Kale Pani Da Morcha has called for action on December 3 in Ludhiana to plug illegal connections that discharge toxic wastewater into the Buddha Dariya. This appeal was made because the government, which is responsible for addressing this issue, has failed to take adequate action.”

He added, “We have received overwhelming support from across Punjab. Many people have called to show their support, and farmer organisations have expressed their willingness to actively participate in this cause.”

Jaskirat Singh said, “We humbly request everyone to understand the importance of this mission, as it is a significant step for the welfare of the people and the betterment of society. This effort aligns with the principle of Sarbat da Bhala (well-being of all). It is crucial to carry out this campaign with peace, seriousness, care, and discipline.”

He cautioned participants to stay vigilant against potential disruptions. “We must ensure that no mischievous elements get an opportunity to disrupt the efforts. Our goal is to achieve success in this movement with the same discipline and peace as demonstrated during the farmers’ protest in Delhi, which was victorious without any unrest,” Singh said.

“This is a long struggle, and the only way to succeed is to fight it in a proper, organized manner,” Singh added.

Decades-Long Neglect of Buddha Dariya

Buddha Dariya has been polluted for decades in Ludhiana.
Buddha Dariya has been polluted for decades in Ludhiana. File Photo

The Kale Pani Da Morcha has announced plans to plug outlets of two Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) of Ludhiana’s dyeing industries on Tajpur Road, Ludhiana, during the December 3 protest. Activists, including Lakha Sidhana and Amitoj Mann, had pointed out that despite constitutional authorities ordering CETPs to stop discharging water into the Buddha Dariya, these plants continue to operate unabated.

The environmentalists have accused successive governments of ignoring the alarming pollution levels. Industrial effluents, domestic sewage, dairy waste, and solid waste have been dumped into the water body, transforming the once-thriving Buddha Dariya into the toxic Buddha Nullah.

The activists emphasized that only a sustained, peaceful, and collective effort can bring about lasting change.

It is also required to mention that the representatives of dyeing industries had earlier announced to oppose the Morcha’s action. They had accused the Morcha members of levelling false allegations against the dyeing industries.

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