Ludhiana: No action has been taken on discharge of untreated sewage into sewage networks for months

Around 40 dyeing units in Industrial Area A and other locations, which were ordered to stop discharging untreated sewage into the local government drains a few months ago, continue to flout norms despite the inaction of the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC).

The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) had flagged the issue over 1.5 years ago, identifying nearly 40 dyeing units discharging untreated waste into the drains. The PPCB conducted hearings eight months ago and also forwarded the list to the CM for action. Notices under Section 33-4 of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act have been issued to violators and a detailed list of violating units, including major industries generating significant discharges, has been provided to the civic body.

In October last year, the MC commissioner had directed dye mill owners to stop discharging industrial waste into the city’s sewage systems, as per the PPCB order. Officials said dumping treated or unprocessed waste violates not only the PPCB norms but also the Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines of the polluter-pays principle. Dyeing plants have been directed to adopt zero liquid discharge (ZLD) technology or set up a common effluent treatment plant (CETP) for proper waste management.

Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) workers claim that toxic sewage is entering the plant, leading to the contamination of Buddha Nullah. Residents of Tajpur Road, Chandigarh Road and nearby areas also complained of sewage flooding the streets due to blocked drains.

The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, say political interference prevented officials from taking action against prominent dyeing units, some of which are large industries with operations around the world. Despite mounting evidence and directives from the PPCB and NGT, officials are reported to be hesitant to enforce compliance.

Repeated attempts to contact MC Commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal, who conducted a personal hearing and assured stringent action, went unanswered. Environmental activists and affected residents continue to demand accountability and immediate action to prevent further damage to the city’s sewage system and water bodies.