Post News Network
Odapada, March 21: While people in various countries celebrate World Water Day Sunday, rapid industrialisation in the district has severely affected river Brahmani
Establishment of various industries in the district has rendered the river water unfit for consumption for both humans and animals alike.
These industries draw water from the river and also discharge the untreated effluents into the river. This apart, several illegal brick kilns which have been operating over on the banks of Brahmani have also contributed to pollution of the river water.
The ash generated from these brick kilns are being directly discharged into the river. The river pollution has not only affected the aquatic creatures but also hit the poor villagers living close to the bank of the river as ground water is scarcely available in the region.
People here have held the state pollution control board officials and industrial units responsible for the pollution as they have failed to do anything to stop the pollution of the river.
Residents allege that irrigation authorities, without verifying the water retaining capacity of the river, are allowing the industries to draw water from the river for their own use. This has resulted in the drying of the river.
The river now flows in a small stream during dry season, except for the rainy season. While rules require that industrial units after using the water in their plant should treat it for reuse but it is not happening here as most of the plants discharge the effluent water into Lingira and Kisinda canals which later flow into the river.
The release of effluents has been going on for years following which the river has become toxic. Residents have demanded stringent action to stop the pollution, failing which they will be forced to go for agitation.