Birgunj, November 3
Efforts to clean the Sirsiya River and control industrial pollution in Birgunj have been intensified ahead of the Chhath festival. The government has tightened monitoring of industries to prevent the discharge of untreated wastewater and chemical waste into the river.
Government agencies and local authorities have stepped up cleaning and monitoring efforts to ensure a clean environment for devotees who visit the riverbanks to perform rituals and offer prayers during Chhath.
The Department of Industry on October 31 once again directed industries not to discharge untreated wastewater into the river. It also announced plans for joint monitoring and inspection of industries.
Meanwhile, a five-point decision was taken at an all-party and multi-stakeholder meeting held on November 1 under the chairmanship of Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal to control pollution and manage waste in the Sirsiya River.
The meeting directed industries in the industrial area to operate their wastewater treatment plants at full capacity round the clock. It also decided to take action against industries found discharging untreated chemical wastewater into the river.
Similarly, the meeting decided to conduct a feasibility study on establishing a common wastewater treatment facility to treat wastewater generated by small and medium-sized industries.
The decisions also include arranging an alternative outlet to prevent sewage from municipalities from flowing into the river and establishing a conservation fund with the participation of all three tiers of government for the river’s long-term protection.
The government has previously taken action against industries responsible for polluting the Sirsiya River.
According to details made public on July 21, tests of wastewater discharged by industries around the river found that 12 industries had violated environmental standards.
A decision was taken to fine each of the 12 industries Rs 1 million, bringing the total penalty to Rs 12 million.
