Home / Environment / Pollution Debate Rages Over Musi River Project
Pollution Debate Rages Over Musi River Project
3 Aug
Summary
- Musi River sediment is claimed to be free of hazardous material.
- Environmentalists dispute claims, citing pharmaceutical contamination.
- Project received environmental clearance despite ongoing debate.
The Musi River sediment between twin reservoirs and Bapughat has been declared free of hazardous material by the Musi Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL). This declaration was made during the environmental clearance process for Phase I of the Musi Riverfront Development Project. The State Environment Impact Assessment Authority approved the project on Monday.
MRDCL presented findings from soil and sediment quality studies, indicating soils are generally non-contaminated and suitable for development. Sediment analysis showed primarily organic contamination linked to sewage, with negligible heavy metal concentrations. These findings were presented as within prescribed standards due to the non-urbanized terrain.
However, environmentalists contest these claims, pointing to a study in 'Environmental Chemistry and Eco-toxicology, 2026' which reported high concentrations of bulk drug components like Telmisartan and paracetamol in the Musi River. The study highlighted a high Anti Microbial Resistance risk in the project's Phase 1 stretch. "Scientists for People" has urged authorities to mandate testing for pharma residues and AMR markers before proceeding.
MRDCL assured that any localized contaminated material encountered during excavation, planned at depths of 0.5 to two metres, would be handled and disposed of according to regulations. Despite these assurances and environmental clearance, the debate over the river's true pollution levels and the adequacy of the environmental assessment continues.
