What is the 'Beda Beas Yatra'?

The 'Beda Beas Yatra' is an annual event held on the Beas river at Harike Pattan Wetland to raise awareness about pollution in the Sutlej river and the importance of protecting wetlands.

Why is the water color of the Sutlej river different?

The Sutlej river's water appears blackish due to the discharge of untreated urban sewage and effluents from polluting industries, a stark contrast to the relatively clearer Beas river.

What activities were part of the 'Beda Beas Yatra'?

The event included a boat ride, nature walk, migratory bird observation, music performances, and discussions on water quality, river health, and wetland ecosystems.

Home / Environment / 'Beda Beas Yatra' Spotlights Punjab's Polluted Sutlej

'Beda Beas Yatra' Spotlights Punjab's Polluted Sutlej

3 Feb

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Summary

Fourth annual 'Beda Beas Yatra' held at Harike Pattan Wetland for World Wetlands Day.
Event raises awareness on Sutlej river pollution and wetland degradation.
Stark contrast in river water color highlights pollution from untreated sewage.

'Beda Beas Yatra' Spotlights Punjab's Polluted Sutlej

For the fourth consecutive year, the 'Beda Beas Yatra' was celebrated on the Beas river at Punjab's Harike Pattan Wetland, coinciding with World Wetlands Day. This initiative, organized by citizen groups like Bhoomitra and PAHAL, seeks to highlight the escalating pollution in the Sutlej river and the imperative to safeguard wetland ecosystems.

Harike Pattan Wetland, Northern India's largest man-made wetland, serves as the confluence for the Beas and Sutlej rivers. During the event, participants observed a striking difference in water color, with the Sutlej exhibiting blackish hues due to untreated urban sewage and industrial effluents, while the Beas water appeared relatively clearer. Organizers noted a decline in migratory bird numbers at the wetland, attributing it to climate change and habitat degradation.

The yatra incorporated a boat ride, nature walk, and bird observation led by naturalists. Cultural performances, including traditional music, enhanced the reflective atmosphere. Discussions focused on water quality, the ecological health of rivers and wetlands, and their connection to public health. The event underscored the vital role of wetlands in supporting biodiversity and maintaining water quality.