Ghaggar River Chokes on Waste and Mining

The Ghaggar River in Panchkula is critically endangered by persistent illegal mining and the continuous dumping of solid and liquid waste. This environmental degradation is occurring despite numerous directives from the National Green Tribunal over the years, indicating a significant gap between policy and on-the-ground enforcement.

Activities such as illegal mining along the riverbed are altering its natural shape and flow, potentially increasing flood risks during monsoon seasons. Furthermore, the river receives substantial amounts of untreated or partially treated wastewater through various drains. Water quality tests have consistently found the river unfit for bathing due to high biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) levels.

Environmental activists have organized numerous clean-up drives, yet the river continues to be a receptacle for plastic waste, household garbage, religious offerings, medical waste, and construction debris. Residents have represented to civic bodies, demanding measures like mapping entry points, declaring no-dumping zones, and ensuring proper waste disposal. While authorities acknowledge some issues, particularly late-night mining from neighboring regions, stronger continuous monitoring and enforcement are deemed essential by environmentalists.